EAPC Meeting in Defense Ministers Session 3 Dec. 99

Statement by Mr. Luan Hajdaraga Minister of Defense of Albania Mr. Chairman, Dear colleagues, Last spring events and, in particular, the Kosova Crisis demonstrated the indispensable role of NATO in protecting stability, freedom and prosperity within the Euro-Atlantic area. During those critical months Albania tried to respond to the efforts of the Alliance by totally committing itself in support of NATO's operations. In this fight for values, by putting at full disposal of the Alliance our territory and all our capabilities, we followed the natural aspirations of the Albanians to stand in the right side, that of democracy against dictatorship. On the other hand, the Albanians will never forget the solidarity and the support of NATO member and partner countries in dealing with that critical humanitarian situation. The Kosova crisis forged a new level of close cooperation between the Alliance and partner countries. NATO-s successful role in Kosova operations has further renewed and increased the public support of the Albanians to the Euro-Atlantic integration. The membership of Albania into NATO has been and will remain for a long-term period of time an absolute priority of our policy. The Membership Action Plan and the two important documents of Security and Defence Policy, recently approved, will be the compass for the future activity of Armed Forces. The Washington Initiatives approved at the height of the Kosova conflict proved once more the capability of the Alliance to adapt itself to new missions and new challenges. We deem of a great importance these initiatives and, especially, those linked directly with our region. We intend to fully co-operate with allies and partners in the framework of these initiatives, giving our contribution to the enhancement of security in our region, thus contributing to producing more security than we consume. We strongly believe that the Southern Eastern Europe Initiative is enormously important for the integration of the Balkan countries in Euro-Atlantic structures. In this context, we will contribute in strengthening security and stability in the region through developing effective co-operation, improving interoperability with NATO allies and partners, increasing transparency in defence related matters, enhancing good relations with neighbours, preventing and resolving the conflicts in peaceful way. Albania seeks to take full advantage of PfP co-operative activities; however, its financial resources are limited and greater participation in PfP will still require NATO and partner assistance. We will continue as an aspirant country to implement our Annual National Programme for the Membership Action Plan. I reconfirm the willingness of the Albanian Government to assume and share roles and responsibilities, burdens and benefits of common security, collective defence and adherence in the approach of security outlined in the NATO Strategic Concept. Thank you for your attention.