Albania Sends Second Army Contingent to Serve in Kosovo

The 2nd contingent with 30 officers from the Ground Forces, officers of the Commando Battalion, from the Special Operations Regiment (ROS) have left for Kosovo to serve as part of the KFOR mission. 

Minister of Defense Niko Peleshi, present at the send-off ceremony, appreciated this as a special moment due to the fact that these officers go on a mission as representatives of the country in the efforts of the NATO Alliance to serve security and peace. 

"The Republic of Albania has consistently proven that it is not only a factor of peace and stability in the region and beyond, but also a serious ally, which undertakes and bears the burden of obligations and within the framework of the collective defense of the Alliance", said Peleshi. 

The Minister of Defense emphasized the unsparing support of Albania to the aspirations of Kosovo, but also appreciated the increased presence of the forces of the Alliance countries as part of KFOR.

"Supporting Kosovo in its aspirations towards membership in international organizations, contributing to the strengthening of peace and security, encourages the development of the region and curbs the expansion of the influence of other countries that challenge democracy in the countries of the Western Balkans. Our security challenges remain shared, indivisible and multifaceted. They come from every direction, and can undermine security and stability in our region and beyond. The Ministry of Defense appreciates the deployment and increased presence of the armed forces of allied and partner countries in the KFOR Mission. This is a major contribution of the Alliance to the stability of the Western Balkans. As the Secretary General of NATO underlined a few days ago, the KFOR troops in Kosovo are ready and determined to follow their duty in fulfilling the mission to maintain a safe environment in Kosovo and in the region ", said the Minister of Defense. 

Peleshi also appreciated the officers of the first contingent, who according to him have shown high moral values ??and standards and with their professionalism have gained the full respect and trust of the Operation Command and other officers of the NATO Allies. The 30 troops of the 2nd Contingent from the Land Force, effectives of the Commando Battalion, from the Special Operations Regiment (ROS) will serve in the Peja area, side by side with their Italian and Croatian colleagues. 

The following ceremony was attended by the Chief of General Staff of the FA, Brigadier General Arben Kingji, Deputy. Commander of the Ground Force, officers/non-commissioned officers as well as family members of the personnel.