President of the Republic, H.E. Bajram Begaj receives the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer

6 February 2023President of the Republic, H.E. Bajram Begaj receives the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer

The President of the Republic, H.E. Bajram Begaj received today the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, Admiral Rob Bauer. President Begaj thanked Admiral Bauer for visiting Albania during these challenging times for peace and security in the Euro-Atlantic area, as a result of Russia's illegal aggression against Ukraine. President Begaj praised Admiral Bauer's leadership of the Military Committee with vision and commitment, as well as appreciated the contribution that the Military Committee gives in terms of adapting and strengthening the capacities and overall cohesion of the alliance.

The Head of State affirmed that Albania remains engaged in NATO missions and operations, increasing its contributions to KFOR for 2023, remaining ready for further increase, if necessary. Albania stands by and will continue to support Ukraine in political, diplomatic and military terms.

Next, President Begaj appreciated NATO's commitment to the region and KFOR's role and mission in maintaining peace and security. Albania supports the dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo mediated by the EU and supported by the US, in order to reach a final agreement, leading to mutual recognition. President Begaj emphasized that Kosovo has been an independent state since 2008, with a clear Euro-Atlantic vision, and in this context we support an even closer and intensive cooperation with NATO.

The Head of State also discussed the Iran-sponsored cyber-attack against Albania and appreciated NATO's support and cooperation in overcoming the attack. In this regard, President Begaj expressed his appreciation for a more profound cooperation and further contribution of NATO's structures, agencies and entities in strengthening cyber defence.