Defense Minister meets with U.S. Assistant Secretary for Political-Military Affairs

Published: Friday, 12 July 2024 11:52

 

Defense Minister Niko Peleshi held a meeting with Mrs. Jessica Lewis, Assistant Secretary for Political-Military Affairs in the U.S. Department of State.

Mr. Peleshi assured Ms. Lewis of Albania's commitment to fulfilling all obligations outlined in the "Lines of Efforts 2023-2027" document, which was signed at the end of the U.S.-Albania bilateral talks on Security and Defense in Tirana last September.

The Defence Minister and the U.S. State Department official discussed the situation in Ukraine and the Western Balkans. Mr. Peleshi requested increased attention from the United States and other allies, particularly in northern Kosovo, expressing concerns over occasional incidents provoked by elements with close ties to Belgrade.

Regarding the situation in Ukraine, the Minister emphasized that Albania will remain deeply engaged in assisting the Ukrainian people. He highlighted the logistical support provided by Albania since January 2024 and discussed new aid packages and participation in the "Interflex" training mission for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The meeting also covered projects such as Corridor VIII, Porto Romano, and the revival of the military industry. Minister Peleshi emphasized the offer of cooperation to large American firms in the military industry sector.

Mrs. Lewis reaffirmed the United States' support for Albania, highlighting the country as a strategic ally and one of the most reliable partners in the Balkans.