EUFOR today holds a Change of Command Ceremony at Camp Butmir, marking the transfer of command from Major General Florin-Marian Barbu from Romanian Armed Forces to Major General Maurizio Fronda from the Italian Armed Forces.
The Change of Command Ceremony was attended by senior military and civilian representatives from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the international community, including the EU Special Representative, H.E.Mr. Luigi Soreca, the Operational Commander, Lieutenant General Ludovic Pinon de Quincy, the Commander of the Italian Joint Force Command, Lieutenant General Giovanni Maria Iannucci, senior representatives of Romania, as well as High representatives of the Ministry of Defence. For the first time, a platoon of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina also took part in the ceremony.
During the event, speakers underline the strong cooperation between EUFOR and local institutions, as well as the importance of professionalism, transparency and impartiality in carrying out the mission’s mandate. Appreciation is expressed for Major General Barbu’s leadership and dedication during his tenure, while Major General Fronda outlines his readiness to lead EUFOR in the year ahead.
In his address, Major General Florin Marian Barbu highlighted the strong and ongoing cooperation with Ministry of Defense of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, expressing gratitude for their continues support to EUFOR. Also, Major General Barbu wished Major General Fronda great success in his new position and expressed his confidence that his vast experience will bring great value to the mission.
Furthermore, the EU Operation Commander, Lieutenant General Ludovic Pinon de Quincy thanked Major General Barbu for his leadership and professionalism and awarded him with European Union Common Security and Defence Policy Medal for Extraordinary Meritorious Service. He also expressed his good wishes and support to the incoming EUFOR Commander, Major General Maurizio Fronda and the Italian contigent.
Lastly, Major General Fronda congratulated Major General Barbu on his achivements and expressed his readiness to assume command of EUFOR. Moreover, the new Commander assured all distinguished guests that on his command EUFOR will continue to show transparency and impartiality for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Change of Command Ceremony reaffirms EUFOR’s ongoing commitment to peace, stability and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in close coordination with local and international partners.