DV Day of the Albanian-British exercise, “Albanian Lion '14”

: Published: Saturday, 13 September 2014 18:33

At the Naval Base in Kepi i Palit (Bisht-Palla), it was held today the “Distinguished Visitors Day” of the joint Albanian-British exercise, “Albanian Lion 14”. At the event attended the President of the Republic of Albania, Mr. Bujar Nishani, Minister of Defence, Mrs. Mimi Kodheli, British Rear Admiral, Bob Tarrant, Chief of General Staff of the Armed Forces, Major General Jeronim Bazo, the UK Ambassador in Tirana, Mr. Nicholas Cannon, Members of Parliament, defence attachés accredited to our country, etc.

Defence Minister Kodheli praised the commitment and results achieved by the participating troops in “Albanian Lion 14”. This exercise being held in our country, said Ms. Kodheli, is an indication of its size and importance, but also it demonstrates the excellent cooperation of the Royal Marines with our Armed Forces, and the biggest benefit is just the consolidation of the friendship between the two Armed Forces.
Speaking about the NATO Summit held in Wales, Minister Kodheli said, “A week ago I had the privilege, being part of the Albanian delegation headed by the Prime Minister of Albania, to attend the NATO summit, in Wales, UK. This summit will remain in the history of our alliance, as the summit where once again a strong and unified voice made clear that the Alliance is united, strong and ready to defend each member country.”

The “Albanian Lion 14” exercise, further added Minister Kodheli, is being held at a brittle time for our common security and in particular for the European continent. Albania has condemned since the beginning the aggressiveness of the Russian Federation and has joined the stances of our allies, including the sanctions against Russia. On the other hand, the risks from the South are becoming more disturbing every day. We have all seen the staggering brutality of the tragic events in Iraq and Syria. Terrorism and fundamentalism, which have existed, have overcome every limit and are violating every fundamental principle and universal value. We cannot allow this situation to continue. Therefore, Albania decided to act quickly and in coherence with allies, to support the government of Iraq with weapons and ammunition. Over the years, we have shown that we have the will, that we are responsible and determined to act wherever and whenever is necessary. I am convinced that this will continue to be valid also in the future, said Minister Kodheli.

From the troops and means participating in the joint Albanian-British exercise, “Albanian Lion 14”, a series of military demonstrations were carried out, such as amphibious assaults from the sea, simulation of combat in urban areas, etc. This exercise is taking place in our country, in Biza, Zall-Herr, Kepi i Palit, Kuçova, Pashaliman and Porto Palermo and it was supported by four military ships. During the exercise, the Naval Base of Kepi i Palit was used as logistical supply base, as well as for the withdrawal of troops and vehicles participating in the “Albanian Lion 2014”.