GENERAL D'ALESSANDRO TOOK OVER THE DUTY OF EUFOR DEPUTY COMMANDER

SARAJEVO, Bosnia (May 21,2008) - As of 20 May 2008 The European Union Force in Bosnia (EUFOR) has a new Deputy Commander (DCOM). Brigadier General Roberto D’Alessandro took over his duties from the outgoing DCOM Brigadier General Carmelo De Cicco.

Brigadier General Carmelo De Cicco on his departure said: “I would like to thank everyone who has assisted me throughout my tour of duty. I am very pleased with the decisive progress that Bosnia has made during my time as DCOM.

I only mention, as examples, the initialling of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement with the European Union, which is in the final stage for signature, and the remarkable achievements in the sector of police reform.

Additionally, I have been delighted with the close cooperation established between EUFOR and the Bosnian Armed Forces, which are marching together along the road to a complete stabilisation of the country”.

Brigadier General Roberto D’Alessandro has previous experience of service in Bosnia (1995-1996), when he served in the Multi-National Division (South-East) in the southern Bosnian city of Mostar.

He said,he is very much looking forward to serving in Bosnia and is keen to reinforce the message that EUFOR is a force for good that is working together with the Bosnian Army, in bringing the country closer to the European Union and NATO.
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