Defence Minister Pirro Vengu welcomed Lord Stuart Peach, the UK’s Special Envoy to the Western Balkans, during a high-level meeting in Albania, as part of the Joint Military Exercise “Austere Wolf – 24.”

Both Minister Vengu and Lord Peach praised the exceptional collaboration between Albanian and British forces during the “Corridor VIII Response” exercise, underlining the growing partnership between the two nations.

In his discussions with Lord Peach, Minister Vengu addressed the evolving security situation in the region, with a special focus on northern Kosovo. He reaffirmed Albania’s strong support for NATO’s decision to increase its presence there, highlighting that Albania has already bolstered its own military contingent in the KFOR mission.

Minister Vengu stated: “As a NATO member, Albania’s strategic geographic position places us in a key role, and we are committed to further investing in the infrastructure needed to support the Alliance.” He further pointed out: “Work on Corridor VIII is advancing rapidly, and the grand project of Porto Romano port is moving forward, with a significant part designated for military use.”

Additionally, Minister Vengu shared Albania’s ambitious plans to revive its Military Industry, extending an open invitation for British agencies and companies to explore investment and partnership opportunities.