Stability in Bosnia-Herzegovina in Hungary’s interest, says defence minister

(MTI) – Stability in Bosnia-Herzegovina is of a national interest for Hungary, and it will keep the number of troops in that country level, Defence Minister Csaba Hende told MTI in Sarajevo on Thursday.

The camp saluted Hende, Hungarian Ambassador to Sarajevo Jozsef Pandur and members of the delegation with military honours.

If there is no order and stability in Bosnia-Herzegovina this will affect Hungary, too, Hende told MTI. He mentioned as examples the problems of refugees, drug and human trafficking and organised crime, which can cross borders. He said it was cheaper and more effective to treat the cause than to deal with dangers once they are more spread out.
Hungary’s strategic goal is to see all Balkan countries join the Euroatlantic organisations with time, as this could ensure stability in the region, Hende said.

Hungarian peace-keepers have served in missions in the western Balkans since 1995. Currently the Hungarian army provides nearly 400 troops to NATO and EU-led operations. Nearly 160 troops currently serve in Bosnia Herzegovina.
Hende met EUFOR commander Dieter Heidecker and NATO commander Merle D Hart, who both spoke highly of the Hungarian team’s service.

Hende will travel to Kosovo on Friday and visit the KFOR headquarters and soldiers stationed there.

Photo: MTI – Szilárd Koszticsák

Source: http://hungarymatters.hu/