Tirana recently hosted the South East Defence Ministerial (SEDM), which brought together defense ministers and senior representatives from numerous countries.
At the ministerial, Albania’s Defense Minister, Mr. Pirro Vengu, delivered a speech emphasizing unity and collaboration: “In these challenging times for global peace and stability, it’s vital that we send a clear message of standing together and working collectively to face the multiple risks and threats—both traditional and hybrid—that confront us.”
“SEDM returns to Tirana as part of a journey that began 28 years ago,” Minister Vengu continued. “Although the geopolitical and strategic security environment has evolved, the objectives and founding principles of this initiative remain crucial. Regional cooperation, good neighbor relations, enhanced defense capacities, and integration into Euro-Atlantic structures are as meaningful today as they were at the start. For Albania, this cooperation acts as a compass toward a democratic community built on solid values. Through our years of collaboration, we have managed to deter the ambitions and interference of malign actors who might undermine our region’s Euro-Atlantic path.”
The Defense Minister went on to highlight Albania’s role as a key player in regional security this year, stating, “Albania has become a focal point for regional defense and security cooperation, hosting and leading important formats such as the Adriatic Charter (A5), the Meeting of Chiefs of Defense from regional armed forces, and now this ministerial—a pinnacle event in our joint efforts.”
Minister Vengu also reaffirmed Albania’s unwavering commitment to NATO and EU initiatives: “Our dedication to NATO and EU agendas is steadfast, both institutionally and militarily, as we work to reinforce national resilience, strengthen collective defense, and deter third-party ambitions—particularly Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine and its innocent citizens.”
He highlighted Albania’s contributions to regional security by providing national assets and infrastructure, referencing the Kuçovë Air Base and the upcoming military port project in Porto Romano.
The ministerial acknowledged Albania’s leadership within the South-Eastern Europe Brigade (SEEBRIG), underscoring its importance for regional and global stability and security.
This year’s SEDM in Tirana gathered representatives from member countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Greece, Italy, Croatia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania, Turkey, Slovenia, Serbia, Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, and the United States.
Additionally, the event included representatives from RACVIAC, the Center for Security Cooperation, and UNDP/SEESAC.