Minister Kodheli at the forum “To be secure”, in Budva, Montenegro

: Published: Friday, 30 May 2014 18:15

The Minister of Defence, Mrs. Mimi Kodheli participated at the forum “To be Secure”, which is being held in Budva, Montenegro on May 29-31, 2014. The forum is attended by defence ministers, ambassadors and senior representatives of the countries of the region and beyond. The forum “To be Secure” discussed several important issues, such as the situation in Ukraine, mission in Afghanistan after 2014, etc. In her remarks, Minister Kodheli focused on Afghanistan issue after 2014. She emphasized: “Albania will be side by side with allies for the future decisions. We have done the right thing, at the right time.”

During the day, Minister Kodheli held a meeting with the Minister of Defence of Montenegro, Mrs. Milica Pejanovic. Minister Kodheli expressed to her counterpart, Mrs. Pejanovic, that Albania supports the “open door” policy and wants to see Montenegro as soon as possible a member of NATO.” Montenegro’s membership in NATO means more security and stability in the Balkan region”, stated Minister Kodheli. Minister Kodheli added that the Albanians of Montenegro are and will continue to be a connecting bridge between our two countries, and an element of stability and cooperation between Albania and Montenegro. Both defence ministers also discussed about the situation in our region, as well as about the developments in Ukraine.

Defence Minister Mrs. Mimi Kodheli also held today a special meeting with the director for South-Central Europe Affairs at the U.S State Department, Mr. Jonathan Moore. Mr. Moore stated that the United States supports Albania in any undertaken action. Regarding the status of candidate country, this is an issue that is related to the interests of both our countries, as NATO members. We have delivered this message in Tirana, but our messages, I cannot say they have fallen on deaf ears, but they have fallen in ears that do not want to hear. Further, Mr. Moore said that the Unites States assesses Albania’s contribution to NATO. He reiterated once again the support for all the anti-corruption initiatives, undertaken by the Ministry of Defence, stating that it must be praised cooperation with the Prosecution Office, calling it as a proper action in such cases. “Neither a person, nor any institution should become an obstacle to progress and reforms”, - said Mr. Moore. Further, Mr. Moore emphasized that the Unites States pays great importance to the rule of law and encourages efforts to achieve common goals. “We fully support you in your efforts to protect the dignity and honour of the Armed Forces.”

While Defence Minister, Mrs. Mimi Kodheli informed Mr. Jonathan Moore on the steps being taken by the Ministry of Defence. Both senior officials discussed about the efforts made by Montenegro to fulfil the conditions for membership in NATO, as well as about NATO issues after 2014.