OUTGOING AND INCOMING COMMANDERS JOINT FORCE NAPLES VISIT KFOR

Pristina, 21 July 2014. Joint Force Naples Commander, Admiral Bruce W. CLINGAN, and the incoming Joint Force Naples Commander, Admiral Mark E. Ferguson carried out a 2 day visit to HQ KFOR in Pristina and he met KFOR Commander General Salvatore FARINA.

Admiral CLINGAN and Admiral Ferguson were briefed by COM KFOR and the international HQ Staff on the latest development in the current security and political situation in Kosovo as well as the wider Balkans region.

After the briefing, Admiral CLINGAN highly complimented the improved overall security situation in Kosovo and the excellent KFOR management of security during the last parliamentary elections held on June 08th, the recent situation in MITROVICA after the removal of the barricade and the building of the "Garden of Peace” and the St. VITUS Day’s celebration’s on June 28th which was carried out in a peaceful and orderly manner.

COM JFC Naples also greeted members of KFOR and he emphasized the importance of KFOR in the delicate and complex context of the Balkans and the need to continue to accomplish the mission promoting progress and dialogue in the region.

During the visit Admiral CLINGAN, accompanied by General FARINA, had the opportunity to meet with Ms. Atifete JAHJAGA, Kosovo President, Mr. Hashim THACI, Kosovo Prime Minister, Mr REXHEPI, Minister of Interior of Kosovo and Mr CEKU, Minister of Kosovo Security Force (KSF).

Local political authorities expressed their gratitude for the significant contribution made to security and stability by KFOR contingent.

On completion of his tour to KFOR, Admiral CLINGAN met the "Quint Ambassadors” of France, German, Italy, United Kingdom and United States.

The visit of Admiral CLINGAN was also the occasion to introduce his successor, Admiral Mark E. Ferguson, as the JFC Naples Commander. The ceremony of the change of JFC Naples Commander, between admiral CLINGAN and Admiral FERGUSON will take place in Naples on 22nd July.