Kosovo’s Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, declared that the trilateral defense agreement signed two days ago by Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia is not intended to threaten any country but is a message for stability and peace in the region.
Maqedonci also emphasized the role of Albania and Croatia in supporting Kosovo’s integration into Euro-Atlantic structures.
“We do not aim to threaten anyone, neither in the Western Balkans nor anywhere else. We wish to send a message of stability and security, as well as a message to all those who aim to threaten security in the Western Balkans, the territory, and the lives of the citizens of our countries. The document clearly emphasizes the commitment of Albania and Croatia to support Kosovo’s integration into Euro-Atlantic structures, which means that these two NATO countries support Kosovo’s membership in NATO,” he said.
“This is welcomed by us, considering the security environment in the region and Europe, and bearing in mind Kosovo’s need for support from NATO countries. But we, as a new republic, will also commit to supporting Croatia and Albania where we can provide our help,” added Maqedonci.
According to Maqedonci, the roots of this cooperation were formed a year ago, when all three countries agreed to expand and deepen military cooperation, and not only military but also in the field of defense in general.
“The roots of all this cooperation and the agreement to have a joint agreement between the three countries were formed a year ago, when we had discussions with the Croatian Minister of Defense and especially with the Minister of Defense of Albania, Pirro Vengu. We agreed to strengthen, expand, and deepen military cooperation between the three countries, and not only military but in the field of defense in general.”
“It is quite natural that Croatia, Albania, and Kosovo have such an agreement, as the first of its kind in the Western Balkans, uniting countries that share the same values and interests for peace and stability. There is also Bulgaria’s willingness to join this initiative, and I believe that other countries will have the same approach towards the initiative of our three countries,” he emphasized.
