COVID - 19, Meeting of NATO Ministers of Defence, Xhaçka: Solidarity and political unity are indispensable

Published: Wednesday, 15 April 2020 20:54

In conditions when almost all NATO member states have been affected by COVID-19, in a format not previously applied to the Alliance, the Ministers of Defense have participated in a special unscheduled Ministerial.

Defence Minister of Albania, Olta Xhaçka, during her speech via tele-conference, said that COVID-19 is a serious threat and challenge to the security of the Alliance.

Defence Minister expressed solidarity to all Allies for the casualties caused by pandemic, but also gratitude for what she called the "white army" engaged in the front line against the invisible enemy.

"We express solidarity to all Allies for the casualties caused by pandemic. Gratitude for the 'white army' engaged in the front line against the invisible enemy. This pandemic found unprepared even countries with larger economies than Albania. We are proud of the extraordinary contribution of the Armed Forces. AAF expertise and discipline have helped cope with the pandemic. The message that the Alliance needs to show now is that of political unity and solidarity. It’s time to reflect on what needs to be better done. To regenerate public diplomacy against the misinformation campaign and false news. Through solidarity, we will be able to face the tough challenges, a consequence of pandemic", - said Defence Minister.

She underlined that the assistance that NATO countries have sought through the Euro-Atlantic Disaster Response Coordination Center, is the right instrument to assist countries that have difficulties in these times.