After 15 years of NATO membership, Peleshi stated that Albania is a key guarantor of peace and stability in the region

Published: Tuesday, 09 April 2024 15:03

On the occasion of Albania's 15th anniversary of NATO membership, the Land Force Command in Zall Herr held an “Open Day” attended by the President of the Republic of Albania, Bajram Begaj, Defense Minister Niko Peleshi, Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy David Wisner, Chief of the General Staff of the AAF Major General Arben Kingji, ministers, deputies, ambassadors, military attachés, commanders of forces, etc.

Initially, the attendees observed demonstrations by the Land Force and Commando Troops as they visited the Armed Forces stands, showcasing all the equipment and capabilities for defense and security, including tactical, operational, and strategic communication systems.

In his welcome speech, Defense Minister Niko Peleshi highlighted Albania's NATO journey: “Fifteen years ago, thanks to the strong will of our people and our eagerness to be part of the Occident, Albania joined NATO, the largest political-military alliance that has been in existence for 75 years. This was a major achievement for us, not just politically and diplomatically, but also in terms of defense and security. It ensured the support of 26 NATO allies, providing protection for our citizens.”
Minister Peleshi expressed his gratitude to the strategic ally, the USA, for their unwavering support on our journey to NATO.

According to Defense Minister, today, Albania's contribution is respected and highly valued by friendly and partner countries. Albania's determination to be wherever the Alliance needs is greatly appreciated. “We have elite members of the Armed Forces stationed in Bulgaria and Latvia, representing us in the Southeastern flank. Additionally, we maintain a significant military presence in KFOR Kosovo, participate in maritime activities in the Aegean Sea, and carry out a training mission in Iraq. Meanwhile, our best military men and women, along with other civil service colleagues, serve with outstanding professionalism at our representative office in Brussels, as well as at NATO Headquarters and Commands in the Euro-Atlantic region.” - said Minister Peleshi.
“Already 15 years later, I believe that we have entered another phase in our role within the Alliance. There is no longer any doubt about our determination in our contributions, approach, and attitudes. We choose to stand with our allies in every challenge that the turbulent times facing humanity will throw at us. We stand firmly by the side of Ukraine, its people, and its military's efforts to confront the ferocious Russian aggression. We have helped and will continue to help the people of Ukraine in their just struggle for freedom. We will also continue to be the most active guarantors of peace and stability in our region,” - Minister Peleshi emphasized.

Minister Peleshi emphasized the inauguration of the NATO Tactical Air Base in Kuçova, as well as the Porto Romano project to make it available to the Alliance.
President Bajram Begaj, on the other hand, emphasized: “Our commitment to NATO is unconditional and demonstrates our readiness to participate not only in protecting our borders but also in assisting and contributing to maintaining peace and stability in the region and beyond.”

The Head of State described NATO membership not as a destination, but as a continuous journey for Albania, aiming to strengthen democracy, invest in defense capacities, and cooperate with international partners to build a safer and more stable future for all. President Begaj extended a special thank you to the United States for their continuous assistance and NATO's intervention in the liberation of Kosovo, stating, "Albania will never forget this!"

Chargé d'affaires at the US Embassy, David Wisner, quoted the words of President George W. Bush, emphasizing the enduring strength of the Alliance: “The long-lasting strength of the NATO Alliance is a testament to the enduring power of freedom. This Alliance will lead the way to a safer and more hopeful world. I hope your children always honor the struggles you faced. May the stories of Albania serve as a beacon of hope for those still trapped in the shadows of tyranny. And I hope that your example will help them towards a brighter day," - said the US representative.

The Chief of the General Staff of the AAF, Major General Arben Kingji, stated that: “the positive evaluations that our Armed Forces receive in exercises, operations, or within the NATO Command structure reinforce our commitment to successfully accomplish the task and to further develop cooperation with allied and partner countries.”

At the end of the activity, those present greeted officers serving in international peacekeeping missions via live communication.