The Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Washington, D.C., hosted a reception on December 3, 2024, to mark the 20th anniversary of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AF BiH).
The event was organized by Chargé d’Affaires Mrs. Amela Sudžuka-Ćerimagić and Brigadier Edin Čizmić, Defense Attaché of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the United States. The reception brought together representatives of the U.S. State Department, the U.S. Department of Defense, the Maryland National Guard, the Maryland Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council (MBHEC), distinguished members of the diplomatic corps in Washington, D.C., military officials, and members of the Bosnian-American community—highlighting the enduring partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United States.
Chargé Sudžuka-Ćerimagić emphasized the continued cooperation in training members of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina at U.S. military institutions, noting that such programs play a vital role in strengthening the AF BiH’s professional capacity and interoperability.
Major General Janeen L. Birckhead, Commander of the Maryland National Guard, commended the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina for their progress and accomplishments in military police training, aviation, cyber defense, emergency response, and medical evacuation. She congratulated the AF BiH on this significant milestone—their 20th anniversary—and reaffirmed the importance of the long-standing partnership under the Maryland Bosnia and Herzegovina State Partnership Program.Brigadier Čizmić highlighted the essential role of the Armed Forces in promoting peace, stability, and unity within Bosnia and Herzegovina. He underscored that the AF BiH represents not only the country’s defense capability but also a symbol of cohesion and shared values. “The Armed Forces are a vital part of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s defense and serve as a positive example for the nation,” he stated.The reception celebrated not only the anniversary of the AF BiH but also reaffirmed the firm and ongoing commitment of both Bosnia and Herzegovina and the United States to strengthening cooperation in support of peace and stability. The occasion further underscored the importance of partnership in advancing progress across both military and civilian sectors.Representing the Maryland Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council, co-founders Azra Nurkić Kaćapor, Emir Nurkić, and Adnan Hadrović emphasized the organization’s mission in supporting these efforts:“The event was a reminder of the ongoing commitment to strengthening ties and supporting progress in both Bosnia and Herzegovina’s military and civilian sectors.”
