Minister for Europe meets 1SCOTS in Bosnia
David Lidington tweeted that they were 'Part of hugely valued contribution by Scottish regiments to UK peacekeeping efforts worldwide'
1 SCOTS and Minister David Lidington in Bosnia and Herzegovina
An FCO spokesman said:
We are proud that the UK continues to contribute to stability and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), through providing personnel in-theatre and in reserve for EUFOR Operation Althea.
1 SCOTS contribution to the EUFOR mission in BiH is an excellent example of the UK’s extensive defence engagement activities overseas, which help to safeguard peace and security in countries affected by conflict or instability.
The UK’s armed forces have a long-standing and excellent tradition of contributing to multinational peacekeeping and stabilisation operations. The scale and quality of the UK’s defence capabilities mean that it is able to make a real difference, as a sizable force for good in today’s fast-changing and globalised world.
1 SCOTS are in BiH on an Operational Rehearsal exercise with EUFOR and the BiH Armed Forces. This exercise is an important part of their work contributing to security in BiH. As part of that work, they are assisting with the humanitarian response to the recent flooding, providing support for the BiH Armed Forces as they carry out vital flood recovery tasks such as debris clearance and aid distribution.
The Royal Regiment of Scotland, 1 SCOTS, form one of four intermediate reserve companies for EUFOR Operation Althea in BiH. To train for this role, and ensure that they are able to deploy at short notice should the security situation warrant, they conduct an annual operational rehearsal in BiH alongside the BiH Armed Forces. 1SCOTS are deployed in BiH from 28 May – 22 June, with the operational rehearsal running from 30 May - 20 June.
In addition to the long-planned operational rehearsal, 1 SCOTS will also work alongside the BiH Armed Forces in capacity building activities as they respond to the recent flooding in BiH. 1 SCOTS will assist in the distribution of aid, flood debris clearance, and surveying of transport routes.
The UK is a long standing supporter of the EU Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), EUFOR, and its role to ensure a safe and secure environment in BiH. The UK’s plans to contribute additional military personnel to EUFOR ALTHEA until the end of the year. This is in support of a request made by Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe (DSACEUR) to Member States, to strengthen EUFOR’s ability to predict and respond quickly within their mandate. There is a need for additional capability in EUFOR, including situational awareness and operational planning.
The UK will be contributing two staff officers to support planning activity and two Reconnaissance Platoons (around 90 personnel in total) for a period of six months, starting 1 July 2014.
