Socialist Party parliamentary group leader Taulant Balla has described Albania’s approval of a $302 million defence loan agreement with the United States as a historic step, saying the deal represents the strongest support Washington has ever provided to Tirana.

Speaking to reporters after Parliament approved the agreement with 74 votes, Balla said the fast-tracked procedure was necessary to ensure the loan could move forward without delays and avoid putting the planned September disbursement at risk.

“In 104 years of relations between the two countries, this is the greatest support the United States has given to Albania,” Balla said, adding that missing the parliamentary deadline could have created further difficulties due to the legislative calendar.

Balla said the agreement strengthens Albania’s defence capabilities and reflects the close cooperation between the two countries on security issues.

He also highlighted the involvement of President Bajram Begaj, who, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, followed the negotiations closely.

“The fact that the President of the Republic has followed the negotiations for this agreement closely shows that Albanian institutions are fully committed to their responsibilities,” Balla said.

Calling the agreement “historic,” Balla stressed that strengthening national security remains a key priority for the government majority and that cooperation with the United States continues to play a central role in Albania’s strategic interests.