Defence Minister Nufi hosts Chief of Defence of North Macedonia, strengthening cooperation in the field of defence and security in focus

Published: Tuesday, 12 May 2026 13:27

Defence Minister Ermal Nufi, today hosted the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of North Macedonia, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, for talks centred on regional security, defence cooperation, and NATO coordination in the Western Balkans.

 

The meeting highlighted the growing importance of closer regional connectivity and military mobility, with Corridor VIII described as a strategic infrastructure project with direct relevance to both security and operational readiness across the region.

Against the backdrop of today’s increasingly complex security landscape, both sides stressed the value of deeper defence cooperation between Albania and North Macedonia, underlining their shared responsibilities as NATO Allies and their commitment to preserving stability in the Western Balkans and beyond.

Minister Nufi reaffirmed Albania’s continued alignment with its strategic partners and emphasised the importance of strengthening coordination between allied armed forces in response to evolving regional and global challenges.

The discussions also focused on the contribution of both countries to international security missions, including the European Union mission EUFOR ALTHEA and NATO’s KFOR mission in Kosovo, which continues to play a central role in maintaining regional stability and security.

Albania and North Macedonia continue to work closely within NATO frameworks and regional initiatives, including SEDM/SEEBRIG and the U.S.–Adriatic Charter (A-5), further advancing cooperation, interoperability, and collective preparedness.