[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.