President Begaj wished the Albanian troops on the occasion of the New Year, expressing appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice that at the turn of the year they are far from their families and loved ones, on duty and in the service of a noble mission for maintaining peace and security.

Albanian troops are part of missions abroad from Kosovo to Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Latvia, Iraq and even South Sudan.

“Your service alongside the Allies is a service that is permeated by the sacrifices, dedication, responsibility and high discipline that characterizes the Armed Forces,” President Begaj says.

The President said, among other things, that 2022 was a very challenging year, where Russia’s unjustified aggression against Ukraine jeopardized peace and security in the Euro-Atlantic space, with its effects spilling over into the lives of every citizen. On the other hand, according to President Begaj, this conflict has highlighted the importance, strength and compactness of the alliance, which is capable of protecting every inch of it and its member countries.

President Begaj underlined that “as a member of NATO, our country will continue to actively contribute to missions and operations directed by NATO, and increase our contributions when necessary.”

“These days I have been following the events in the north of Kosovo with concern. Albania, as a NATO member country, is committed to and supports the KFOR mission, which we consider a success story. I thank you, the contingent that is there, for all the commitment to maintaining peace and security in Kosovo,” the President emphasized.

“The Armed Forces are very important for a country and today, through you, I avail myself of the opportunity to thank all the Albanian Armed Forces for the commitment shown in the fulfillment of every constitutional task, but also in coping with those situations which were not a few during the year, such as various emergencies,” the President said.

“For me, you are the most valuable asset of the Armed Forces. We can purchase high-tech devices, but if we don’t have people to use them, we haven’t done anything. On this occasion, I once again wish you happy holidays, health and happiness for you and your families. Happy New Year 2023, many thanks for the service you do to the nation,” President Begaj concluded his greeting. /j.p/sm/