site.btaDefence Minister Proud to Hear Partners Laud Bulgarian Contingent in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov on Monday thanked the Bulgarian military in the EUFOR Althea Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina for conscientiously performing their tasks in this crucial operation for Europe's stability. During a visit to the Western Balkan country, Stoyanov told the Bulgarian contingent he was proud to hear all officials he met that they are grateful for the Bulgarians' participation in the international mission, the Defence Ministry in Sofia reported.

He said: "Fourteen years ago, I was on a mission to Iraq, so I am aware of the strain of being away from one's family and friends and performing one's duties diligently in a foreign land."

Also meeting with the contingent, Chief of Defence Adm. Emil Eftimov underscored the good training of the Bulgarian force and their excellent performance in Althea.

The servicepersons raised questions about the allowances they receive for participating in the Althea Mission. The Defence Minister vowed to try to arrange for a pay rise.

The professional performance of the Bulgarian military received high marks during Stoyanov's meetings with EUFOR Commander Maj. Gen. Anton Wessely and NATO Headquarters Sarajevo Commander Brig. Gen. Pamela McGaha. The sides discussed the role of the mission for the stability and security of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans as a whole.