Tirana, November 14 – Yesterday, Albania and Italy finalized a series of bilateral agreements. Specifically, the agreements focus on security, defense industry development, and strengthening civil protection.

The Ministry of Defense provided details on the agreements. It also emphasized the depth of the strategic partnership. Furthermore, the ministry highlighted the countries’ commitment to regional stability and development.

Prime Minister Edi Rama and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni supervised the signing and exchange of agreements in several sectors. In particular, they prioritized security, defense industry development, and civil protection.

1. Deepening Defense Cooperation

The defense ministers signed the Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Defense. As a result, they expanded joint activities in training, interoperability, maritime security, and operational readiness.

In addition, the ministers signed a technical agreement to transfer two Italian patrol boats to the Albanian Coast Guard. Consequently, Albania strengthened its maritime monitoring capabilities. Moreover, the transfer improves search-and-rescue operations in the Adriatic and Ionian seas.

2. Expanding Defense Industrial Cooperation

The countries strengthened the strategic partnership in the defense industry. This step supports the creation of a national defense industrial base. At the same time, it aligns with Albania’s broader agenda of industrialization and technological development.

Furthermore, the state-owned company KAYO signed cooperation agreements with Italian companies Leonardo and Fincantieri. Specifically, the agreements focus on advanced technologies, from munitions to command-and-control systems. In addition, they cover maintenance of existing naval vessels. Finally, they address the production of new naval assets for domestic and international markets.

3. Investing in Civil Protection

The summit focused on strengthening Albania’s civil protection resilience and capacities. To achieve this, the countries signed two financial instruments.

First, they signed a 30 million euro loan for equipment, training, and operational modernization. Second, they signed a 5 million euro grant for rapid response and risk reduction. Together, these measures raise bilateral cooperation to a new level.

Moreover, the countries signed a tripartite memorandum and declaration. The parties include the Agency for Civil Protection of Albania, the Italian Agency for Civil Protection, and the coordinating bodies in Tirana. Through this agreement, they ensure synergies for current and future civil protection and defense projects.

/a.p./