Bill Clinton: “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…”

“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.…”