Defence Minister Niko Peleshi convened a consultative meeting on national security issues, bringing together various stakeholders, including senior military personnel, association leaders of military personnel in reserve, representatives from the Ministry of Defense and General Staff of the Armed Forces, as well as experts from the AAF Academy and the College of Defense and Security.
The discussions centered on the review of strategic security and defense documents, aligning our capabilities with contemporary challenges within NATO Alliance requirements.
In his address, Minister Niko Peleshi underscored several factors necessitating a review of the National Security Strategy. These include the threat posed by Russian aggression in Ukraine to the Euro-Atlantic area, terrorism, hybrid conflicts, cyber-attacks, and violent extremism.
Furthermore, Minister Peleshi announced that the Defense Budget for 2024 stands at 2% GDP, in accordance with NATO requirements, representing a 22% increase from 2023. He highlighted achievements from the previous year, such as the development of Cyber Defense capacities, the acquisition of the first two Black Hawk helicopters, and enhancements in operational capacities of the Armed Forces.
Looking ahead to 2024, Minister Peleshi emphasized the focus on bolstering Ground-Based Air Defense capacities and operational capabilities for detecting and neutralizing unmanned aerial vehicles (C-UAS). He also mentioned the imminent deployment of the “Bayraktar” drone fleet, alongside efforts to consolidate the Black Hawk helicopter fleet and prioritize innovation and technological advancements.
Other challenges for the year include modernizing the Integrated Air and Maritime Space Observation System, strengthening Civil Defense, operationalizing Kuçova Air Base, and enhancing training and interoperability through exercises like “Defender Europe”.
Minister Peleshi affirmed Albania’s commitment to participating in NATO, EU, UN missions, and voluntary coalitions. He noted an increase in Albania’s presence in KFOR and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with evaluations underway for additional commitments in NATO and the EU.
Highlighting the significance of the year, Minister Peleshi noted the 15th Anniversary of Albania’s NATO Membership and the 80th Anniversary of the country’s Liberation.
In conclusion, Minister Niko Peleshi stressed the importance of collective efforts in addressing new and ongoing threats, emphasizing the need for public understanding, partnership, and cooperation to shape future Security and Defense policies for generations to come.
Regarding active military officers, Minister Peleshi assured continued improvement in their treatment, following a nearly 40% salary increase in recent years.