NATO Secretary General congratulates Albania for regional cooperation
Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen met with the President of Albania Bujar Nishani at NATO Headquarters and thanked him for his country’s contribution to the Alliance’s collective defence and operations.
“Albania is a valued Ally”, the Secretary General said. “You are making important contributions to our missions in Afghanistan and in Kosovo. We thank you for your steadfast support and we thank your troops for their courage and professionalism.”
The NATO Secretary General said that Euro-Atlantic integration remains the most effective way to bring lasting stability to the Western Balkans.
“As a young member of our Alliance, Albania can be an example for the whole region”, he said. “NATO’s door remains open. We urge all countries aspiring to membership to demonstrate political commitment, a track record of reform and responsibility, and a new resolve to settle old disputes. There is still work to be done, but the future of the entire region is in the Euro-Atlantic family”.
The NATO Secretary General discussed with President Nishani how to ensure security in a time of economic austerity and congratulated the President for Albania’s efforts in pursuing regional approaches to cooperation.