NATO Press Release (95) 126: DEPLOYMENT OF THEATRE ENABLING FORCES
DEPLOYMENT OF THEATRE ENABLING FORCES
In the light of the peace agreement initialled in Dayton last week and
bearing in mind its impending signature in Paris, Council today decided to
authorize SACEUR to deploy theatre enabling forces into Croatia and
Bosnia-Herzegovina.
These forces consist primarily of headquarters communications and
logistics elements involving around 2,600 NATO personnel. Their early
deployment is required to prepare for the rapid and efficient arrival of
the main body of IFOR following signature of the peace agreement and
adoption of a UN Security Council resolution.
The enabling forces will operate under NATO command and with NATO rules
of engagement. The enabling forces will be deployed in close coordination with
the UN Peace Force and under status of forces agreements with
Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia signed by the two governments in Dayton.
This decision demonstrates NATO's preparedness to implement the
military aspects of the peace agreement once it is signed and to help
create the conditions for a lasting peace in former Yugoslavia.
|
