October 22, 2026 | Maryland–Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council (MBHEC)The Maryland–Bosnia and Herzegovina Exchange Council (MBHEC) welcomes the continued strengthening of the longstanding partnership between the Maryland National Guard and the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH), highlighted by the visit of Major General Janeen Birckhead, Adjutant General of the Maryland National Guard, to the “Immediate Response 26” military exercise at the Manjača training area in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo, the visit reaffirmed a partnership built on mutual trust, sustained professional cooperation, and strong institutional ties. This enduring relationship contributes to strengthening defense capabilities, improving interoperability, and advancing the shared security interests of the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The exercise provides an opportunity to assess the operational readiness and capabilities of selected AFBiH units under realistic field conditions. Conducted within NATO’s operational capability evaluation and feedback framework, it also demonstrates the importance of professional training, cooperation, and alignment with NATO standards.
The Maryland–Bosnia and Herzegovina partnership has a long history. The State Partnership Program (SPP), formally established in 2003, has provided a lasting framework for cooperation between Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Over the years, it has facilitated military training, professional exchanges, institutional development, and stronger ties between the two partners.
MBHEC’s role in strengthening the broader partnershipWhile the State Partnership Program provides a strong foundation for military cooperation, MBHEC is committed to expanding the relationship beyond defense and security. Established in November 2023, the Council works to advance complementary civilian cooperation in education, research and innovation, economic development, healthcare, culture, government relations, and community engagement.
MBHEC believes that the Maryland–Bosnia and Herzegovina relationship is strongest when military cooperation is complemented by meaningful connections among public institutions, universities, businesses, civil society organizations, and communities on both sides of the Atlantic.The Council commends the continued dedication of the Maryland National Guard and the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina to this enduring partnership and looks forward to supporting new opportunities that deepen bilateral engagement and deliver lasting benefits to the people of Maryland and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Source: Radiosarajevo.ba — Maryland National Guard Commander Attends AFBiH Military Exercise
