Shqipëria Posted on 2025-02-04 12:11:00

The first contingent of the Albanian Armed Forces in the EU operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina is leaving, Minister Hasani: "Clear evidence of our commitment to regional and international security and stability"!

From Edel Strazimiri

The first contingent of the Albanian Armed Forces in the EU operation in Bosnia

The Albanian Armed Forces further increase their contribution to international missions, increasing their presence in the European Union operation, "ALTHEA" in Bosnia and Herzegovina by 30 troops.  

A platoon from the Light Infantry Battalion of the Land Force will be the first contingent in this operation, where in recent years the AF has contributed with staff officers.

The ceremony of escorting this contingent from the Zall-Herri garrison was attended by the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani, the Minister of Defense Pirro Vengu, the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to our country Tayyar Kağan Atay, the EU Chargé d'Affaires Andre Rizzo, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Arben Kingji, the Commander of the Land Force Major General Ilir Xhepexhia, etc.

In his welcoming speech, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, assessed that " this engagement is not simply a military duty, but a clear demonstration of our unwavering commitment to regional and international security and stability. Our participation in this mission reflects the values ​​that we share with our partners: peace, cooperation and collective security."

"Over the years, Albania has built a successful and worthy history in international engagements, as a NATO member state and a reliable partner within the European Union. Our participation in European Union missions, such as EUFOR "ALTHEA" and the one in Mali, has proven the professionalism, discipline and dedication of our Armed Forces. You, through your preparation and capabilities, have earned the respect of our allies and international partners", said Hasani, among other things.

In his speech, the Minister of Defense, Pirro Vengu, emphasized that the Forces have significantly increased their participation in international missions and operations, aligning themselves with EU policies within the framework of membership in the Union. “The Armed Forces reach the figure of 500 personnel permanently deployed in missions abroad. Women and men are engaged every day, throughout Europe, in Africa and in the Middle East. Through this contribution, Albania not only proves that it is 100% aligned with the EU's foreign and security policy, but this is an alignment with actions. And when we see that some of the EU countries have withdrawn from this mission, while Albania is taking on additional responsibilities, we understand even better that stability and peace in our troubled region is the fruit of difficult compromises ,” he said.

The first contingent of the Albanian Armed Forces in the EU operation in Bosnia

Turkish Ambassador Atay emphasized the early cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries, which have served side by side in Afghanistan, however, he considered the launch of this new operation as an important moment in the continuation of bilateral cooperation.

European Union Chargé d'Affaires Andre Rizzo praised Albania's full alignment with the EU's foreign and security policy, considering our country as an important partner in the global security environment.

The first Albanian contingent in Operation ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina consists of 30 troops, including one girl, and will serve for about 6 months at Camp Butmir in Sarajevo.

The first contingent of the Albanian Armed Forces in the EU operation in Bosnia

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