President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Bajram Begaj, Hosts Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Christopher G. Cavoli
President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Bajram Begaj, warmly welcomed General Christopher G. Cavoli, who is in Albania on an official visit.
During their conversation, President Begaj conveyed his appreciation to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe for his work as SACEUR in collective defense, as well as for promoting regional cooperation and addressing new challenges with the goal of maintaining peace and security in the Euro-Atlantic area and on the international stage.
President Begaj acknowledged the essential capacity building and development of the Albanian Armed Forces, the increase in cooperation with NATO allies, based on joint commitments and our country’s vision to enhance transatlantic security and strengthen stability in the Western Balkans.
As the General Commander of the Armed Forces, President Begaj highlighted Albania’s ambitions to revitalize its defense industry, the initiatives and investments undertaken, and the offer of Porto Romano as a NATO base during his discussion with General Cavoli.
“Cooperation in defense and security is very important and I highly value the role that the U.S. European Command plays in fostering our cooperation and supporting the Albanian Armed Forces,” expressed President Begaj.
The meeting also discussed strengthening the strategic partnership at a time which President Begaj described as “unprecedented for security,” referring to Russian aggression in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East.
“These conflicts also negatively impact the Western Balkans, a region of strategic importance to the Alliance,” stated President Begaj, who emphasized Albania’s commitment to fulfilling the obligations of the Armed Forces for the national defense plan, the regional peace, security, and stability plan, and collective defense in accordance with the NATO forces model.
President Begaj also expressed special gratitude for the work done by KFOR in Kosova, reaffirming support for this mission to secure peace and stability in the region.