Military Leaders Collaborate in Albania to Increase Readiness, Interoperability in the Balkans

Lt. Gen. Stephen M. Twitty, deputy commander, U.S. European Command (USEUCOM), met with leaders from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia during the U.S. – Adriatic Charter (A5) Chiefs of Defense Conference Sept. 25. 

The meeting of military leaders from both the U.S. and Europe focused on enhancing NATO interoperability and readiness to face common security threats and challenges in the Balkans. 

During the conference, Twitty and his counterpart, Brig. Gen. Bardhyl Kollcaku, chief of the Albanian Armed Forces General Staff, took part in a joint declaration signing ceremony in which they both emphasized the importance of shared purpose and commitment to promoting stability and security in the region. 

In his remarks, Twitty congratulated Albanian leaders on celebrating 10 years since joining NATO and commended the nation for their progress in recent years, noting that the country is a strong ally and valued security partner, both regionally and globally. 

“Albania’s steadfastness enhances flexibility and interoperability among allied and partner nations in the interest of strengthening combined response capabilities and demonstrates international resolve,” he said.

Both Twitty and Kollcaku thanked their fellow A5 CHODs for their contributions to the alliance and encouraged the group to continue working together to improve the combined fight; to counter shared challenges, threats and security concerns; and to maintain a secure and prosperous Europe. 

“We continue to demonstrate a capability that has never been matched in the history of humanity,” said Twitty. “As NATO allies, we will always be stronger and united as one. NATO is a military alliance, but our collective strength comes from our shared vision. We see the world through the same eyes. We recognize the challenges of today and are committed to preparing together for the challenges of tomorrow.”

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