Major General Bair Takes Office as EU Force Commander in Bosnia
Major General Bernhard Bair of the Austrian Armed Forces has taken over command of the EU military mission in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Bair succeeds Italian Major General Stefano Castagnotto and will hold his new post for the period of one year.
High Reputation for Excellent Work
"The appointment of an Austrian General clearly acknowledges how excellent our Forces have worked for peace and stability in recent years", said Norbert Darabos, Minister of Defence and Sports. Bair thanked visitors and soldiers for trusting him and stated: "I am ready to take over duty."
Handover Ceremony
Darabos attended the handover ceremony as well as Ambassador Valentin Inzko, the High Representative for Bosnia-Herzegovina, and General Edmund Entacher, Austria's Chief of Defence Staff.
2,000 Troops, 25 Nations
With his new command, Bernhard Bair accepts responsibility for 2.000 troops currently serving in the EUFOR-Althea mission. The Austrian Armed Forces will increase the size of its contingent in Bosnia from 100 to 190 soldiers.
Images related to this article
In December, General Major Bair aussumed his post as EU Force Commander.
Bair, l., with Minister Darabos and High Representative Inzko.