The investiture ceremony was held at the Italian Embassy, where the honors were formally conferred upon Mr. Neritan Nallbati and Mr. Alban Dautaj by His Excellency Marco Alberti, Ambassador of Italy to Albania. The event was graced by the presence of the President of the Republic of Albania, Bajram Begaj; the Deputy Minister of Interior, Besfort Lamallari; the General Director of the State Police, Ilir Proda; the Rector of the University of Tirana, Artan Hoxha; and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor (SPAK), Adnan Xholi.

The conferment of these titles constitutes a distinguished acknowledgment of the substantial contributions rendered by the respective branches of the State Police in fostering bilateral police cooperation and combating organized crime.

Specifically, Mr. Nallbati was commended for his pivotal role in enhancing bilateral relations between Italy and Albania through coordinated operational efforts, the formation of joint investigative teams, and the apprehension of high-risk individuals declared wanted by the Italian judiciary.

Mr. Dautaj was recognized for his dedication and daily cooperation with the Italian Police, his contributions to the fight against international terrorism, and his role in establishing the trilateral “Skënderbeg” group (comprising Albania, Italy, and Kosovo) focused on combating international terrorism. Furthermore, Mr. Dautaj serves as a key contact point on security matters and has significantly contributed to the strengthening of bilateral relations.

During his address at the ceremony, Ambassador Alberti remarked, “The collaborative efforts between the Italian and Albanian Police constitute a fundamental pillar in reinforcing the cooperation between our two nations. The two officials being honored today are invaluable assets to the Albanian State Police and esteemed representatives of the partnership with Italy. It is a distinct privilege to confer these decorations upon them.”

During his acceptance speech, Mr. Nallbati expressed that “this honor is not only a personal recognition for me but, above all, a token of gratitude to the Criminal Police team and the exceptional cooperation between the Albanian State Police and the Italian Police structures. This collaboration has been built on trust, professionalism, sincerity, and mutual dedication, brought to fruition with joint field operations and collaboration in facing shared challenges. I sincerely thank the President of Italy for this recognition, as well as the General Director for his support in strengthening cooperation between our two police forces. A special thanks also goes to my family, who have endured with patience and sacrifice everything that life as a police officer entails.”

Mr. Dautaj remarked that “this honor represents the culmination of an outstanding partnership developed over the years in the field of security and the fight against terrorism. I extend special gratitude to the Interforce Office of the Italian Embassy, led by my esteemed colleague and friend, Mr. Gava, for the excellent collaboration in the timely sharing of information, the implementation of joint operations, and the exemplary performance of the ‘Skënderbeg’ operational group, which has become a success story. I also wish to express my sincere appreciation to the General Director for his continued support, recognition, and encouragement in the fulfillment of our mission.”

The State Police remain firmly committed to advancing its robust and multifaceted cooperation with its Italian counterparts, with the aim of achieving strategic objectives, combating organized crime, apprehending individuals subject to international warrants, and safeguarding the security of citizens in both countries.

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