TIRANA, February 3 /ATA/ Albania continues preparations to host “Defender Europe 21”, one of the largest U.S. military exercises in Europe.
Deputy Commander of the U.S. Army in Europe and Africa, Major General Joseph F. Jarrard visited Albania to see from very close these preparations. Minister of Defense Niko Peleshi held a meeting with the general on the event.
Minister Peleshi acquainted Major General Jarrard with the preparations that our country has undertaken so far and assured him of the readiness of all structures of the Albanian state, in order to successfully carry out the exercise “Defender Europe 21”.
The Ministry of Defense has found the full support of all structures of the Albanian state in order to successfully implement the exercise “Defender Europe 21”- said Peleshi. He added that during the exercises will be observed the best health protocols and all recommendations of the World Health Organization for the prevention and spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Minister Peleshi also considered holding of these exercises in our country as a clear expression of the U.S. confidence in Albania.
“Albania, as a NATO ally, feels honored and proud of being entrusted with the task of hosting one of the largest U.S. military exercises in the Balkans and in Northern and Central Europe. This is not only a rare opportunity in terms of the professional challenge it carries for our Armed Forces, but it is certainly above all, an act of trust and appreciation for our country,” said the Minister of Defense.
The “Defender Europe 21” exercise, which will be attended by about 6000 troops and hundreds of military equipment from the USA, Albania and other allied countries, will take place in the main military bases of our country during May this year. /a.a/p.s./
