(ANSA) - BRUSSELS, OCTOBER 15 - The European Union's Foreign Ministers met today in Luxemburg and confirmed the EU "unequivocal" commitment to "continue the military mandate of Operation Althea" to support Bosnia-Herzegovina in its path towards internal and regional stabilization, as well as EU integration. In the conclusions adopted today, Ministers reaffirmed their support to the Bosnian authorities to "maintain a safe and secure environment under a renewed UN mandate ". EU waits for "the presentation of the next strategic review" of the military operation, scheduled for 2019, to discuss "the future tasks and options". The Eufor Althea mission kicked off on 2nd December 2004 and its core mandate is cyclically refocused.

The EU ministers also urge the Bosnian authorities to "accelerate their efforts to address the disposal of excess ammunition, weapons, and explosive devices", as well as "demining" operations.

Finally, EU Foreign ministers sent a message to the political leaders of Sarajevo, following the elections that took place in the country on 7 October. The EU expectations consist of a "constructive" engagement on "government formation at all levels, in the interest of citizens". Bosnian authorities should "give priority to the reforms necessary to progress towards EU, ensuring full implementation of the reform agenda", EU ministers.(ANSA).