Albania, Croatia and Kosovo signed a joint declaration of cooperation on defence on 18 March in Tirana, which sparked anger among the Serbian officials, who interpreted such a move as a threat to both the country’s territorial integrity and regional stability. The document focuses on “strengthening the defence and security industry, increasing military interoperability through joint training and exercises, countering hybrid threats and strengthening strategic security, and supporting Euro-Atlantic integration”. It was also reported that the declaration “was open to other countries”, and that Bulgaria was invited to become part of the initiative.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Tirana, Albanian Defense Minister Pirro Vengu stressed the importance of this cooperation in the face of ongoing security challenges.
“In a fragile security environment, we share a common assessment of threats. Our commitment to strengthening defence capabilities is stronger than ever”, Vengu said.
