During his official visit to Kosovo, Defense Minister Pirro Vengu also visited the KFOR Central Command and the Western Zone Command in Peja, where he met with Albanian troops serving alongside NATO allies and partner nations.

Accompanied by Albania’s Ambassador to Kosovo, Petrit Malaj, Minister Vengu was welcomed by KFOR Commander Major General Özkan Ulutaş. They discussed the fragile security situation, particularly in northern Kosovo, and recalled the criminal and terrorist attacks on KFOR troops, including the incident in Banjskë last year. “Albania unwaveringly supports KFOR as the only guarantee of a secure and stable environment in Kosovo.” – said Vengu, expressing his gratitude to Major General Ulutaş for his decisiveness and prudence in averting threatening situations.

At the KFOR base in Peja, the Albanian delegation was received by the Italian base commander, Colonel Mundo, who briefed Minister Vengu on the contributions of the Albanian troops. He highlighted that their dedication and professionalism are highly regarded by all Kosovo citizens, particularly by minority communities.

In his meeting with the Albanian contingent, Minister Vengu expressed his thanks to the men and women of the Albanian Armed Forces serving in the KFOR mission, which is focused on ensuring the safety of the entire population and the freedom of movement across the territory of the Republic of Kosovo.

As Albania increases its contributions to NATO missions, there is also a need for greater attention to improving the conditions for our forces on the ground and providing ongoing support to their families.

The Albanian contingent in the KFOR mission has recently been expanded and now includes 107 personnel at the Western Regional Command in Peja and 25 civilian and military representatives at the KFOR Headquarters in Film City, Pristina.