Today, the ceremony of the 15th anniversary of Albania’s membership in NATO was held.

President Bajram Begaj was also present at the ceremony, who also gave a speech to the attendees.

Begaj said during his speech that the history of Albania’s membership in NATO is part of the journey of the Albanian people towards building a society based on the principles of democracy.

He also said that with NATO membership, the allies have shown confidence in Albania and added that this was also the country’s strategic objective.

Begaj’s speech:

The history of Albania’s membership in NATO is part of our people’s journey towards building a society based on the principles of democracy and freedom.

It embodies the confirmation of our identity and cultural belonging to the Euro-Atlantic community.

Of course, the membership process was not easy. It required commitment, sacrifice and an unwavering desire to change.

NATO membership is a moment of pride for Albania.

It marked a great achievement in our journey towards integration into the Euro-Atlantic structures and became a clear proof of our commitment to the values ​​and principles of democracy.

As a member of NATO, Albania has shown that even small countries can play an important role in maintaining international peace and security.

Our contribution to peacekeeping missions and our efforts to increase military capacity are clear evidence of this role.

Our membership in NATO has not only been a military commitment. It has also been a commitment to share a community of values.

We have worked to strengthen the rule of law, fight corruption and protect basic human rights and freedoms.

These are not only NATO values, but they are also essential for the future of democracy and progress in Albania.

Albania’s determination to contribute to security and defense shows that we are a reliable and committed partner in the Euro-Atlantic Alliance.

We understand and know that security is not only a military issue, but requires political stability, economic development and respect for human rights.

Our commitment to NATO is unconditional and shows that we are ready to participate not only for the protection of our borders, but also to help and contribute to maintaining peace and stability in the region and beyond.

As we celebrate this 15th anniversary, it is important to remember that our NATO membership is not a destination, but an ongoing journey.

We must continue to work to strengthen democracy, invest in our military and civil defense capabilities, and collaborate with our partners to build a safer, more sustainable future for all.

Albania in NATO was our primary objective and our strategic goal.

Our presence in the Alliance serves to protect the country from external threats and contributes to building a safer and more stable region.

This year we commemorated the 25th anniversary of the liberation of the people of Kosovo thanks to the intervention of NATO under the leadership of the USA. The Albanian nation will never forget this.

NATO’s determination not to allow the ethnic cleansing of Kosovo Albanians today takes on an extraordinary value.

We live in a time where geopolitical tensions are on the rise and security challenges have become more complex.

Our being in NATO is a guide for Albania in preserving democratic values, protecting national interests and contributing to a safer and more stable world.

The Euro-Atlantic Alliance is determined to protect the freedom and security of its allies. Collective defense is the best response to any potential threat and danger.

Albania will continue to contribute in an inherent way with active participation and high responsibility in carrying out the missions in which we will be a part.

On the other hand, the allies have also shown confidence in Albania.

This is clearly seen in the Alliance’s most recent investment in the Tactical Air Base in Kuçovo.

This constitutes another impetus to continue with the modernization of the military forces and the increase of defense and security capacities.

Dear attendees,

Today we celebrate the 15th anniversary of membership in the most powerful political-military Alliance in the world, which has managed to protect the common values ​​of freedom and democracy for 75 years.

Today, we reaffirm our commitment to NATO’s values ​​and commitment to peace, security and progress.

As a member of this Alliance, Albania will continue to be a strong voice for democracy, a supporter of peace and a steadfast contributor to the defense of the values ​​we all share and desire.

We thank our NATO allies and in particular our strategic partner, the United States of America, for their continued support and leadership.

Today, I am proud of the Armed Forces and express my gratitude for the extraordinary work of the officers and soldiers, who, with their dedication, have honored Albania.

They deserve all our support as a society, so that they can continue to fulfill their noble mission. In closing, I would like to express the satisfaction and joy that the presence of students in this activity gives me.

We need our children and young people to be educated with love for the homeland, because the protection of peace requires active people, who love Albania and are aware that vigilance and preparation are the price of freedom.

Let’s enjoy the 15th anniversary and many more anniversaries of Albania in NATO!

Together, we are stronger!