17/12/2025
59th Meeting of the BMTF Steering Board Held in Sarajevo
During the period 9–12 December, the 59th Meeting of the Balkan Medical Task Force (BMTF) Steering Board was successfully organized and held in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the Steering Board and Standing Organization member countries — Albania (ALB), Bosnia and Herzegovina (BIH), North Macedonia (MKD), Montenegro (MNE), Serbia (SRB), and Slovenia (SVN) — as well as BMTF partners Norway, represented by LTC Tore Mehus, and the United States, represented by Major Shana Vaughan (USSAFE) and LTC Shelly Brackman (Ohio).
The meeting was chaired by Mr. Krste Malinkovski, Chairman of the BMTF Steering Board.
The primary purpose of the meeting was to discuss and approve the BMTF Logistic Concept prepared by the Standing Organization, and to review the BMTF legal documentation, including the Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding. These discussions aimed at harmonizing the legal framework governing BMTF engagement both within and beyond the Western Balkans.
A significant focus of the meeting was the planned participation of the BMTF in the NATO joint exercise “Vigorous Warrior 2026” in Estonia, which will require coordinated efforts from all member countries and partners to ensure successful multinational participation.
The Steering Board also reviewed the BMTF Annual Activity Plan for 2026, highlighting several key activities, including HOTO and framework nation arrangements, as well as preparations for the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the BMTF.
A special feature of this meeting was the participation of representatives of the European Peace Facility (EPF), represented by Ms. Anne Cler Marangoni, and the Executive Director of the International Trust Fund (ITF). During the discussions, the strategic importance of EPF support was emphasized, particularly in the modernization of equipment and enhancement of BMTF capacities for fulfilling its commitments in the region and beyond.
As part of the official program, participants visited the medical unit of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where they were introduced to medical equipment and tools donated through EPF funds implemented via the ITF.
In addition to the working sessions, the host nation organized a visit to one of the natural attractions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina hosted an official dinner in honor of all meeting participants.
The 59th Steering Board Meeting reaffirmed the strong cooperation among BMTF member states and partners, and underscored the continued commitment to strengthening multinational medical capabilities and regional security cooperation.