Trilateral meeting of the Chiefs of Defence of Albania, Croatia, and the Commander of the Kosovo Security Force

Published: Wednesday, 11 February 2026 11:55

 

On 11 February 2026, the Chief of the General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, hosted in the city of Shkodër a trilateral meeting at the level of Chiefs of Defence of the Republic of Albania, the Republic of Croatia, represented by Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid, and the Republic of Kosovo, represented by Lieutenant General Bashkim Jashari.

Military cooperation among the three countries is well-established and encompasses areas such as exercises, training, operations, and participation in regional initiatives. In light of emerging security challenges, growing hybrid threats, and other risks that may undermine regional, European, and international stability, there is a shared need to further intensify cooperation by generating and leveraging synergies.

The purpose of the trilateral meeting was to identify concrete areas of military cooperation that can enhance interoperability and operational readiness among the Armed Forces of Albania, Croatia, and Kosovo. Particular emphasis was placed on establishing practical mechanisms for coordination and joint training, directly contributing to improved operational effectiveness.

Another priority discussed was the development of military capabilities in line with NATO’s Strategic Concept, the commitments of the 2025 Hague Summit, and the European Union’s Strategic Compass. This entails the implementation of plans and projects aimed at strengthening operational capabilities and preparedness for joint missions within the framework of the Alliance.

The Chiefs of Defence of Albania and Croatia, together with the Commander of the Kosovo Security Force, agreed to continue their cooperation through the development of concrete trilateral exercises for 2026 and beyond.