Speaker of Parliament Niko Peleshi today took part in the Security Forum organized by the U.S. Congress. During the forum, he delivered remarks on Albania’s unwavering commitment to its strategic partnership with the United States and the importance of increasing defense investment.

The discussions focused on global and regional security issues. In particular, participants addressed new geopolitical challenges and cooperation with Western Balkan countries, in line with the strategic priorities of the United States and NATO.

In his speech, Peleshi stressed that Albania remains a reliable U.S. ally and a responsible, active NATO member. He emphasized that Albania fully understands and carries its share of the security burden.

Moreover, Peleshi noted that Albania has increased defense spending to 2.12 percent of GDP. At the same time, he underlined a steady growth trajectory for the coming years, in line with allied commitments to strengthen defense capabilities and collective security.

Furthermore, the Speaker highlighted that the Albania–U.S. partnership is not transactional. Instead, it is strategic, long-term, and rooted in shared democratic values, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

He also underscored Albania’s active role as an operational partner. This role includes contributions to international missions and close cooperation in modernizing the armed forces and strengthening cybersecurity.

Additionally, Peleshi emphasized the importance of stability in the Western Balkans. He described the region as geopolitically sensitive to hybrid threats, foreign interference, and disinformation. Therefore, he called for vigilance, resilience, and close coordination with allies. He added that Euro-Atlantic integration and Kosovo’s NATO membership remain essential for regional security and stability.

The forum brought together U.S. House committee leaders, senators, and members of Congress. It also included senior security officials, parliamentarians, government representatives from Europe and the region, and high-ranking U.S. military figures.

Peleshi reaffirmed that Albania does not seek benefits without contribution. Instead, the country aims to strengthen strategic partnerships based on responsibility, reliability, and concrete action, viewing security as a vital investment in long-term peace and stability.

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