President Begaj at the “Sustainable Defense” Training of the Armed Forces
The President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Bajram Begaj, was present today at the “Sustainable Defense” training of the Light Infantry Group-Battalion conducted in the Luf area of Pukë.
This NATO-certified unit is considered a ready force for deployment and operation in full cooperation with the North Atlantic Alliance.
President Begaj remarked that the training of the Group-Battalion demonstrates that Albania is ready and capable of defending itself and actively contributing to collective defense, especially on the southeastern flank of NATO.
During the training, operational capabilities and new equipment were tested. Addressing the Light Infantry Group-Battalion, President Begaj stated: “This way, you prove your operational abilities to act and conduct combat operations on any geographical terrain and under any circumstances.”
This training coincides with “Steadfast Defender 24,” the largest NATO military exercise in decades. In this context, the Head of State evaluated that “Through this exercise, NATO is showing it is a powerful alliance, capable and ready to protect the population and territory of its member countries in the Euro-Atlantic space from all threats, in a 360-degree approach.”
President Begaj reconfirmed his stance with NATO for Ukraine, while also addressing the real risk of escalation of hotspots referring to the situation in the Middle East and the fragile situation in the Balkans.
“In this context, your training gains another meaning and importance. You, as participants in this exercise, and the entire Armed Forces, are the first line of defense and assurance of security and peace.
Your role for Albania and Albanians is not only vital but also strategic,” stated the Head of State.
The President of the Republic also emphasized the importance of further strengthening transatlantic ties, expressing: “NATO, celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, embodies the collective defense of a community of values, of which Albania is proud to be a part.
”Appreciating the progress of the Albanian Armed Forces since joining NATO, the Head of State mentioned that their continued modernization is a matter of national security. “I value every initiative towards supporting the well-being of the Armed Forces personnel, because defending the country is not an expense but an investment for securing the present and the future.”
He also stressed the importance of the image and message that the Armed Forces convey to the public, declaring, “Above all, it should transmit the deeply patriotic mission you fulfill. This communication should especially happen with the younger generation.”
“Being part of the Armed Forces today is not just a profession; it’s a matter of national pride and patriotism,” declared President Begaj in his capacity as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces during the training of the Light Infantry Group-Battalion, which was also attended by the Minister of Defense, Mr. Peleshi, the Chief of the General Staff, General Kingji, and the Commander of the Land Forces, General Xhebexhia.
