Defence Minister Nufi outlines strategic defence priorities, highlighting modernisation and Defence Industry growth

Published: Friday, 15 May 2026 13:35

At a press conference with media representatives, Defence Minister Ermal Nufi presented the Ministry of Defence’s main strategic priorities, with a strong focus on national security, the modernisation of the Armed Forces, and civil emergency preparedness.

The event was attended by senior defence and security officials, including the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, the Director of the National Civil Protection Agency, Haki Çako, and the Administrator of the State Enterprise, Ardi Veliu.

Minister Nufi reaffirmed that Albania remains a reliable NATO Ally and an active contributor to both regional and global security efforts. He noted that approximately 250 Albanian Armed Forces personnel are currently deployed in international missions under NATO, the European Union, and the United Nations.

“Modernising our Armed Forces remains one of our core strategic priorities. Investments are being directed toward capabilities with direct operational impact, in line with NATO objectives and national security needs,” the Minister said, adding that this process is being carried out in close cooperation with NATO Allies and strategic partners.

He emphasized that these efforts are fully aligned with NATO standards and are being implemented in close coordination with Allied partners.
A key part of the presentation focused on the development of Albania’s defence industry. Minister Nufi highlighted the strategic cooperation between the state-owned company “Kayo” and Italy’s “Fincantieri”, which foresees the construction of a new naval shipyard in Pashaliman.
The project is expected to generate around 400 jobs, enhance domestic technological expertise, and expand Albania’s capacity in naval production for both national and international markets.

According to the Minister, this initiative represents a strategic step forward not only for defence capabilities but also for broader economic and industrial development.

He also pointed to a significant rise in interest among young people joining the Armed Forces. According to recent data, recruitment has increased by around 90% over the past two years, while women currently account for 12–13% of applicants in recruitment phases.

With the summer season approaching, Minister Nufi also presented measures for civil emergency preparedness. He said local structures have been strengthened, inter-institutional coordination improved, and both human and technical response capacities increased. The civil protection budget has also been raised from 800 million lek in 2025 to 1 billion lek in 2026.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to transparency, ongoing communication with the public, and continued investment in strengthening Albania’s defence capabilities.