Minister Peleshi at the U.S - Adriatic Charter Defence Ministerial: Albania will continue to contribute for peace and security in the region

Published: Thursday, 16 November 2023 13:35

 

Defense Minister Niko Peleshi participated in the Defence Ministerial within the framework of the US-Adriatic Charter initiative (A5), chaired by North Macedonia. The discussions focused on current security and defense issues in the Balkan region and beyond.

In a dedicated session, significant emphasis was placed on engagement within the initiative, the implementation of the Adriatic Charter's revitalization concept, participation in NATO missions, regional cooperation in security and defense, and contributions to global security.

During his address, Minister Peleshi affirmed Albania's commitment to promoting stability, security, and peace in the region through political dialogue, good neighborliness, and adherence to international agreements and legislation. Recognizing the Western Balkans' strategic importance for NATO and the European Union, Minister Peleshi underscored Albania's dedication to fulfilling its obligations as the country takes on the A5 presidency in 2024. He pledged to increase the visibility and importance of the Adriatic Charter and promote the "Open Door Policy" as a fundamental principle of regional commitment. Minister Peleshi also advocated for Kosovo's full rights to join the initiative, requesting member countries' acceptance.

In a bilateral meeting with US Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs, Mrs. Celeste Wallander, Minister Peleshi highlighted Albania's role and contribution to the Alliance, with a particular focus on the country's impact in the Western Balkans region.

Minister Peleshi also met with Defence Minister Ejup Maqedonci of Kosovo to discuss common interests in both the bilateral and regional contexts.

The US-Adriatic Charter initiative (A5) is recognized as one of the most important regional initiatives, involving ministers and representatives from the Ministries of Defence of Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Croatia, the USA, Slovenia, Kosovo, and Serbia.