    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book II)]
    [July 9, 1996]
    [Pages 1098-1099]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Program To Train and Equip the Bosnian Federation Armed
    Forces
    July 9, 1996

        I am pleased to announce the start of the U.S.-led train-and-equip
    program for the armed forces of the Bosnian Federation. The purpose of
    this program is to assist in providing Bosnia with the ability to defend
    itself and thereby promote security and stability in the region. The
    program will also help ensure that upon IFOR's departure, a military
    balance exists among the former warring parties so that none of them are
    encouraged to resume hostilities.
        Full commencement of the train-and-equip program was conditioned on
    the Bosnian Government fully complying with two commitments: first, the
    Dayton provision mandating the withdrawal of foreign forces and
    terminating its intelligence cooperation with Iran, and second, the
    passage of a new Federation Defense Law leading to the integration of
    Federation military forces and the creation of western-oriented defense
    institutions in Bosnia. On June 26, I certified that the Bosnian
    Government had met its commitments with regard to foreign forces and
    relations with Iran.
        I am very pleased to say that this afternoon the Bosnian Federation
    Parliament adopted a new Defense Law. Bosnian President Izetbegovic and
    Federation President Zubak have overcome many significant issues in
    order for the Defense Law to become reality. Their leadership reflects a
    commitment to a workable Federation Government, and this law is an
    essential building block of a functioning Federation. When implemented,
    it will strengthen security for all Bosnians and contribute
    significantly to a lasting peace in the region.

    [[Page 1099]]

        With the passage of the law, the Bosnian Government has made good on
    its commitments. Now we can make good on ours: the U.S.-led,
    international train-and-equip program will begin immediately. We
    anticipate the program will start in a matter of days in Sarajevo when
    the Federation signs a contract with MPRI, a U.S.-based company which
    will execute and manage the program within Bosnia. MPRI will conduct its
    first training session for senior military leaders in Bosnia within
    approximately 3 to 4 weeks.
        The U.S. drawdown and transfer of approximately $100 million worth
    of military equipment to Bosnia will also now begin soon. The drawdown
    package includes individual equipment items, tactical communications
    assets, small arms and ammunition, main battle tanks, armored personnel
    carriers, light antitank weapons, and utility helicopters.

    Note: In his statement, the President referred to President Alija
    Izetbegovic of Bosnia-Herzegovina and President Kresimir Zubak of the
    Bosnian Federation.