U.S. boosts the albanian army

U.S. boosts the albanian army

The United States government has today donated 37 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles (MRAPs). These vehicles will be used by Albania’s Armed Forces as a part of NATO’s collective defence.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by the Albanian Defence Minister Olta Xhaçka, US Deputy Ambassador to Albania, Leyla Moses-Ones and the Albanian General Chief of Staff, Bardhyl Kollçaku.

“This package means more capabilities for us and more joint missions, but it also translates into more security for the country and the alliance”, outlined the Albanian Defence Minister, Olta Xhaçka.

On her part, the representative of the US Embassy to Tirana praised Albania’s role in the region, stressing that the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces play a key role in boosting cooperation in the area of defence.

“This new armored capability will enhance Albanian’s internal defense, strengthen NATO’s southern flank, and provide critical combat power to NATO that can be deployed in support of global operations.

“It is yet another example of how Albania is stepping up as a regional leader in the Balkans.

"Under the outstanding leadership of Minister Xhaçka and General Kollçaku, communication and cooperation between our two militaries have never been stronger.

“Meanwhile the delivery of these vehicles marks the completion of one phase of our cooperation. We are excited about the future and the potential to collaborate in additional ways to enhance Albania’s land, air and sea capabilities.

“It is truly an exciting time to be a soldier, sailor or airman in the Albanian Armed Forces.

“We thank you for your commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces, for your commitment to reaching 2% on Defense Spending, and for your past, present and future commitments to the alliance.

“We look forward to working with the Ministry of Defense and the Government of Albania on how we can further expand our military relationship,” concluded Leyla Moses-Ones.



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