A special ceremony in Brussels commemorated the 15th Anniversary of Albania and Croatia's NATO membership, with Defense Minister Niko Peleshi in attendance. In his address, Minister Peleshi emphasized that NATO remains a beacon for democracy, individual freedom, and the rule of law, just as it did 75 years ago.
In his speech, the Minister of Defense emphasized our country's clear support for the alliance, highlighting Albania's efforts over the years to become a valued member among its allies in NATO. He noted that Albania now plays a highly regarded role within the Alliance.
“Today, we stand firm as a proud, dependable, and dedicated ally, committed to NATO's political, institutional, and military objectives. We will continue to fulfill all three core tasks of NATO, just as we have always stood alongside our Allies and Partners whenever and wherever necessary, side by side with them,” - said Minister Peleshi.
Albania, Minister Peleshi continued, will spare no effort to continue contributing to the Alliance, as countries face a more uncertain and dangerous security environment since the end of the Cold War.
Minister Peleshi once again emphasized support for Ukraine but also highlighted the importance of keeping an eye on the Western Balkans. “If the region now enjoys greater stability and prosperity, it is also because of NATO's role in stopping the massacres and ethnic cleansing of the 1990s, especially in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo. We must not allow the victories we have achieved to be undone and we must remain vigilant”, - Peleshi stressed.
The Albanian Defense Minister concluded his speech by emphasizing the ongoing work in defense and security modernization and transformation, as well as highlighting the increase in the Defense Budget during the present year.
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