TIRANA, June 10 – Minister of Defence Ermal Nufi and Chief of General Staff Lieutenant General Arben Kingji met US Air Force Brigadier General Yvonne L. Mays in the United States. Mays also serves as Adjutant General of the State of New Jersey and Commissioner for Military Affairs. The meeting reviewed 25 years of partnership between Albania and the New Jersey National Guard.
Both sides highlighted the role of the cooperation in modernising and developing the Albanian Armed Forces. Military education and the strengthening of the non-commissioned officer corps formed a key focus of the talks. Cyber defence capabilities also featured in the discussions. In addition, the parties addressed support for the full operational readiness of Kuçova Air Base and deeper cooperation within NATO, along with wider Euro-Atlantic security priorities.
Minister Nufi praised the New Jersey National Guard’s contribution to professional training, mentoring, and experience exchange for non-commissioned officers. He said the programmes improved standards and operational effectiveness in the Albanian Armed Forces. At the same time, both sides exchanged views on current security challenges and stressed the need for increased defence investment in line with NATO commitments.
The meeting confirmed a shared commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation and open a new phase of partnership. Both sides said the cooperation will support peace, stability, and Euro-Atlantic security. Earlier, Minister Nufi awarded Brigadier General Mays the “Golden Military Service Medal” for her contribution to military cooperation and institutional development.
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