NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Albanian President Bujar Nishani to NATO Headquarters on Thursday (28 April 2016) to discuss preparations for the Warsaw Summit. Speaking at a joint press conference with President Nishani, Mr. Stoltenberg praised Albania for its contributions to Allied security and for its role in strengthening stability in the Western Balkans.

The Secretary General commended Albania for its continued contributions to NATO missions in Afghanistan and Kosovo, as well as its strong support to NATO partners, including Ukraine. He also welcomed Albania’s contributions to the Global Coalition against ISIL, with equipment and Special Forces trainers to Iraq. Highlighting Albania’s key role in the Western Balkans, the Secretary General added that Tirana’s cooperation with its neighbours helps “build stability closer to home.”

Mr. Stoltenberg also praised Albania’s support for NATO’s Open Door policy and the integration of the Western Balkans into the Euro-Atlantic family. He noted that the Alliance will take an important step next month, with the signature of the Accession Protocol for Montenegro. “Albania’s political and practical efforts help to keep NATO strong, as we face the most challenging security environment in a generation,” Mr. Stoltenberg said.

In their talks, President Nishani and the Secretary General addressed key issues on NATO’s agenda ahead of the Warsaw Summit and progress on key capabilities, such as NATO’s Ballistic Missile Defence. Mr. Stoltenberg also welcomed Albania’s decision to increase defence spending this year.