UK Prime Minister visits Armed Forces Innovation Centre and Museum: Agreement reached to enhance security and defence

Published: Thursday, 15 May 2025 14:25

During his first official visit to Albania—a landmark moment for both nations—UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer visited the Armed Forces Innovation Centre and Museum. He was welcomed by Albania’s Defence Minister, Mr Pirro Vengu, and the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji.

Accompanied by Defence Minister Vengu, Prime Minister Starmer toured the centre’s facilities and met with both Albanian and British military personnel stationed there.

Minister Vengu expressed his honour at hosting the UK Prime Minister in this hub of innovation and cooperation, highlighting the growing partnership between the British and Albanian Armed Forces, both as NATO allies and strategic partners in the Western Balkans.
“We face shared challenges, and we are increasingly developing joint capabilities.” - said Minister Vengu. “Today, under the leadership of our two prime ministers, we signed a landmark agreement that reflects our ambition to deepen cooperation in the defence industry and military innovation.”

Prime Minister Starmer took the opportunity to thank the Albanian military members who work alongside British troops as part of Operation Interflex, a joint effort to train Ukrainian forces.

“The work you’re doing, training Ukrainian troops, is of vital importance.” Starmer said. “I’ve seen the Interflex training up close on several occasions. The professionalism and dedication on display are exceptional, and they mean so much to the Ukrainian soldiers who, after completing their training, head straight to the front lines,not only to defend their country, but to stand on the front lines of our shared values: freedom and democracy.”

The British Prime Minister also praised the broader defence agreement signed between the two nations during his visit.
“I’m genuinely pleased that today we’ve reached an agreement to strengthen our defence and security collaboration, including in areas like production and procurement.” he said. “We are entering a new era for Europe—one that demands stronger ties with our allies. This agreement reflects that vision.”

Earlier in the day, Sir Keir was formally received by Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama at the Prime Minister’s Office. During the meeting, a Joint Statement of Intent was signed between the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Albania and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, focusing on defence exports and industrial cooperation. The statement was signed by Albania’s Defence Minister and the UK Ambassador to Albania, Mr Nicholas Robert John Abbott.