Defence Minister Nufi hosts Chief of Defence of North Macedonia, strengthening cooperation in the field of defence and security in focus

Defence Minister Nufi hosts Chief of Defence of North Macedonia, strengthening cooperation in the field of defence and security in focus

Defence Minister Ermal Nufi, hosted today the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of North Macedonia, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, for an official meeting, focused on regional security and defence cooperation.

The discussions placed particular emphasis on the strategic importance of Corridor VIII, regarded as a key project for enhancing military mobility and strengthening security throughout the Western Balkans.

Both sides reaffirmed the strong good-neighborly relations between the two countries and stressed that, as NATO Allies, Albania and North Macedonia remain committed to preserving peace, stability, and security in the Western Balkans and throughout Europe.

In the context of the evolving security environment and current geopolitical challenges, Minister Nufi highlighted the importance of further advancing military cooperation between the Armed Forces of the two countries, while reaffirming Albania's firm alignment with its Allies and strategic partners.

The meeting also emphasised the active contribution of both Albania and North Macedonia to regional security initiatives and their continued support for NATO's strategic objectives. In this regard, close regional cooperation was assessed as essential to maintaining long-term stability and security in the Western Balkans.

Particular attention was given to the contribution of both countries to the European Union mission EUFOR ALTHEA, as well as to the NATO-led KFOR mission, which continues to serve as a key pillar of stability, security, and prosperity in Kosovo and across the wider region.

Albania and North Macedonia currently maintain close cooperation within NATO frameworks through a number of regional initiatives, including SEDM/SEEBRIG and the U.S.-Adriatic Charter (A-5).