Defence Minister Nufi visits Civil Emergency Support Base, underscores nationwide rapid-response capability

Published: Monday, 18 May 2026 13:21

 

Defence Minister Ermal Nufi visited the Civil Emergency Support Base, where he met Armed Forces personnel engaged in daily emergency response operations, with a strong focus on supporting communities and tackling wildfires ahead of the summer season.

The visit was also attended by the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, the Director of the National Civil Protection Agency, Haki Çako, alongside senior officers and BMEC personnel.

Minister Nufi stressed that improving disaster preparedness, strengthening risk reduction, and ensuring fast, coordinated responses across the country remain key priorities.

He noted that civil protection coordination meetings have been held across all regions, focusing on preventive action, mapping high-risk areas, updating response plans, and reinforcing inter-agency cooperation. He also pointed to increased support for local government units, with funding set at around 800 million ALL in 2025 and rising to over 1 billion ALL in 2026.

According to the Minister, emergency response capacities have been significantly strengthened, with modern equipment and systems now in place to ensure effective intervention in all types of emergencies, particularly wildfires.

He highlighted the central role of the National Civil Protection Agency in coordinating the system at national level and working closely with international partners, including the European Civil Protection Mechanism, to ensure effective preparedness and response.

With the summer season ahead, Minister Nufi urged citizens to remain alert and responsible, emphasizing that early reporting and prevention are essential parts of the system.

“Civil protection is not only the responsibility of institutions in uniform, it is a shared duty. By acting responsibly and reporting risks in time, we protect lives and strengthen the safety of our country.” - he said.

At the end of the visit, Minister Nufi expressed his appreciation to the personnel for their professionalism, dedication, and constant readiness, noting the confidence they inspire among citizens across the country.

The base also showcased its operational capabilities, including firefighting and emergency response vehicles, personal protective equipment for field operations, a mobile Civil Protection Operations Centre, thermal imaging drones used to detect and monitor fire hotspots, and helicopters equipped with Bambi Bucket systems for aerial firefighting missions.