One of the largest multinational military drills led by the US Army kicked off at the Port of Durres.

Chief of General Staff of the Albanian Armed Forces Major General Bajram Begaj commended the event as “historical for the Albanian Armed Forces” and referred to the military drill as a gift of “trust” from the United States for Albania and NATO.

“It proves that all of us together are prepared and able to defend from any threat any secure stability in fragile regions such as the Western Balkans and the Black Sea region”, said Major General Begaj.

“Unexpected problems, unexpected solutions. These flags will never fall”, were the first words of the Ambassador of the United States to Albania Yuri Kim as three soldiers picked up and held an Albanian flag that almost fell due to strong winds.

Ambassador Kim emphasized the country’s strong role in the military alliance due to its strategic geographical position and asserted that Albania has been a host of many similar activities, which according to her are not “coincidental”.

On the 30th anniversary of US-Albania diplomatic ties, the US Ambassador concluded her speech by commending Albania for daring to take up responsibilities.

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama declared that the US-led military exercises are “another important point” in strengthening ties between the US and Albania.

“We continuously praise our relations as excellent, but the fact is that they can be always even more excellent due to reciprocal interaction”, said the head of the executive.

During his word, PM Rama emphasized the importance of passing on the will to younger generations to maintain these strategic relations for the freedom and democracy not only of Albania but of the entire world.

“Let’s convey a message to the entire region and whoever needs a response for our stance alongside the United States and all other states that are determined to pay any price for freedom and democracy”, concluded the Albanian Prime Minister.

President Ilir Meta expressed his gratitude that a military drill of these proportions is held in Albania.

The head of state described it as an “excellent opportunity” for the Albanian armed forces.

“These exercises are an excellent opportunity for our armed forces to test their operational capabilities, not only of combat but also of support, by increasing the level of preparation and interaction and in fulfilling the constitutional missions of our responsibilities towards the alliance”, said President Meta.