Minister Xhaçka is received by US Secretary of Defence: Albania a worthy Ally, strikes harder than its weight.

Published: Wednesday, 18 April 2018 10:01

Washington - The United States value Albania a worthy ally of NATO and a leading country in the Western Balkans.
During her official visit to the US, Defence Minister Olta Xhaçka was received by US Secretary of Defense James Mattis.
"Albania has shown that its geographic size is far less important than its engagement in the Alliance. As a determined Ally, Albania strikes harder than its weight", declared Secretary Mattis at the beginning of the meeting between the two delegations.

He thanked Albania for its commitment to NATO and its involvement in all Alliance operations.
"You are our ally not only in uniform, but in all respects, you will always have our assistance", - said the US Secretary of Defence.
On behalf of the Albanian government, Minister Xhaçka thanked Secretary of State Mattis for the irreplaceable and great support that the United States has given to our Armed Forces in missions and operations, educational opportunities, training and exercises of our military personnel; assistance on skills development that were all important to prepare our Armed Forces for the challenges that present today's security environment.

"We believe the projecting of stability is crucial to peace, security, stability and democracy. The Western Balkans is a West-oriented region. We share and protect the same principles and values and we welcome the strengthening of our strategic partnership ", - underlined Minister Xhaçka.

Further on, the Defence Minister suggested US Defense officials to look at Albania's ability to serve as a contact point in the Western Balkans region. According to her, a US or NATO presence could be a clear demonstration that this region has not been forgotten by the allies.

"We invite you to kindly consider Albania as a contact point in the region. We will continue to be engaged in the region and will certainly play a constructive role for peace, security and prosperity in our area. The United States can rely on us. We believe it is time to see a trace in Albania. A US or NATO presence in Albania is a clear demonstration that this area is not forgotten by our allies. In view of this project (on propose,on request of this project), we are ready to make available our marine bases, land, air, marine capabilities, bilaterally with the US, or within NATO framework. At the same time, we want to see an increase of the US Defence industry in Albania. In this regard, we will appreciate your support and your role in promoting this commitment ", - said Minister Xhaçka.

US Secretary of Defense James Mattis welcomed the proposal to see Albania as a footprint for NATO in the region and said that this proposal comes at a right moment from a country that has shown not only with numbers but also with commitment that it is a worthy ally.