TIRANA, July 30 – Defense Minister Ermal Nufi defended Albania’s defense financing agreement with the United States on Wednesday. He rejected opposition claims that the government approved the deal in violation of the Constitution.
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting, Nufi described the Democratic Party’s criticism as unacceptable. He said national security must unite political forces instead of dividing them. He also stressed that Albania remains a reliable United States ally and stands firmly behind its commitments within the alliance.
Meanwhile, the minister explained that the agreement includes confidential provisions because it falls under a United States defense financing program. He said those restrictions protect financial terms and military specifications rather than limit transparency.
Nufi added that the United States financing supports the purchase of military and technological equipment for the Ministry of Defense. He stressed that payments go directly to system manufacturers. As a result, the process remains clear, transparent and subject to strict United States oversight.
In addition, the minister rejected criticism of the parliamentary procedure. He said members of the Economy Committee and the National Security Committee received enough time to examine the agreement despite the accelerated procedure.
According to Nufi, the text would have remained unchanged even with a longer review period. He added that United States authorities closely monitor every stage of the agreement.
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