TIRANA, June 3 /ATA/ – Albania and Italy are stepping up strategic cooperation in defense and security, Defense Minister Ermal Nufi said following talks with his Italian counterpart, Guido Crosetto, during an official visit to Rome.
The two ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in areas of mutual security interest, particularly in the Adriatic-Ionian region, the Western Balkans and Southeast Europe.
Nufi highlighted the importance of Albania’s close partnership with Italy in addressing shared security challenges and contributing to NATO’s collective defense efforts.
The talks also focused on defense industry cooperation following an agreement between Albanian state-owned company KAYO and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri to produce military vessels. The project is expected to support the modernisation of Albania’s naval capabilities and contribute to the development of the country’s defense industry.
The ministers also discussed Albania’s role within NATO, including preparations for the alliance’s summit scheduled to be held in Tirana next year. Albanian authorities have already established a national task force and organising team for the event.
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