Minister Crosetto Meets the Italian Contingent in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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“Before leaving Bosnia and Herzegovina, I wanted to meet with you to express my solidarity, and that of the Ministry of Defence and the entire country, at such a profoundly painful time.

I have shared with you the reassuring news regarding the condition of your wounded colleagues, whom I visited in the hospitals in Brčko and Tuzla, as well as our commitment to bringing them back to Italy as soon as possible.

There are no words that can ease the pain of losing fellow service members with whom you shared your service and the everyday life of this mission.

But you have chosen a life of service, a commitment that does not come to a halt, even in the most difficult moments. You are part of the great Defence family, which never leaves anyone behind, cares for its wounded and honours the memory of its fallen.

I ask you to stay strong. Your wounded colleagues need you, as do the families of those who are no longer with us, who must feel your affection and your presence.

Thank you for everything you do and for the dignity with which you continue to carry out your duty, even in the face of grief.

The country stands with you. You are not alone.”

These were the words of Minister of Defence Guido Crosetto as he met with the Italian contingent deployed in Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of Operation EUFOR Althea.