TIRANA, May 6 – President Bajram Begaj attended the ceremony marking 25 years of cooperation between the Albanian Armed Forces and the New Jersey National Guard. The event took place at the Land Force Command in Zall Herr. Meanwhile, senior defence officials joined the ceremony. Brigadier General Yvonne Mays also attended. United States Chargé d’Affaires Nancy Van Horn was present as well.
In his address, Begaj described the anniversary as a tribute to Albania–United States partnership. According to him, the cooperation has built trust, professionalism, and security. It has also strengthened human ties between military personnel, institutions, and the two nations.
He said the strategic partnership with the United States remains a cornerstone of Albania’s foreign, security, and defence policy. At the same time, he described cooperation with the New Jersey National Guard as a successful example of bilateral military engagement. Over 25 years, the partnership has supported the transformation and modernisation of the Armed Forces, he noted.
According to Begaj, joint training, military education, technical support, and operational engagements have brought Albanian forces closer to North Atlantic Treaty Organization standards. As a result, the Armed Forces are now more professional and more interoperable. They are also better prepared to meet national and allied obligations.
He also said there is further potential to expand cooperation. Key areas include military education and joint exercises. In addition, he pointed to cyber defence and strategic infrastructure. Meanwhile, projects such as the Kuçova Tactical Air Base and the Porto Romano port reflect a broader vision. This vision aims for a stronger and more secure Albania within the Alliance.
Regarding regional developments, Begaj stressed the need to strengthen the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. He also supported Kosova’s membership in the Alliance. At the same time, he underlined the importance of continued United States presence in the region.
He said current challenges require joint responses. In this context, Albania remains aligned with the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. It also remains aligned with the democratic world, he added. He also noted Albania’s participation in the anti-terror coalition and in the Summit for Peace initiative.
At the end of his remarks, Begaj expressed gratitude for the contribution of the New Jersey National Guard. He reaffirmed support for further strengthening relations with the United States.
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