TIRANA, February 24 – The Minister of Defense of Albania, Pirro Vengu, traveled to Budapest to meet Hungarian Minister of Defense, Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky. During a joint press conference, both ministers highlighted strong cooperation in defense, security, and European integration. Minister Vengu expressed gratitude for the hospitality and collaboration over the years. He emphasized that Albania and Hungary maintain a close partnership at all levels of government. He also noted that Hungarian investments and companies in Albania support military cooperation.

Furthermore, Minister Vengu praised Hungary’s backing of Albania’s European Union membership. He explained that Albania has opened all negotiation chapters and continues reforms to reach key benchmarks. He underlined that support from all European Union member states is vital to ensure progress. The ministers discussed defense and the military industry, highlighting Hungary’s development in this sector. Minister Vengu stressed the importance of integrating military supply chains and giving priority to allied countries. As a result, both nations signed two agreements. One agreement will enhance civilian-level defense cooperation. The other connects institutions responsible for innovation in defense, aiming to access European funding.

In addition, Minister Vengu spoke about Southeastern Europe’s strategic role for continental security. He clarified that Albania is part of Europe’s core rather than its periphery. He recalled Albania and Hungary’s joint participation in the KFOR mission and the European Union mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Meanwhile, Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky welcomed Albania as a European country and a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. He emphasized the historical, economic, and social importance of the Western Balkans. He added that Albania contributes to regional stability.

Moreover, the Hungarian minister recognized Albania’s consistent path toward European integration. He explained that Hungary supports Albania’s European Union membership based on reforms and standards, not political reasons. He contrasted this approach with Hungary’s position on Ukraine, which it does not support for membership. Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky acknowledged Albania’s efforts to modernize its defense sector. He noted that Albania aligns its progress with North Atlantic Treaty Organization standards. He added that achieving these objectives and sharing experience benefits both countries. Finally, both ministers confirmed their commitments during the meeting. The Hungarian minister assured that Albania can always rely on Hungary and its Ministry of Defense.

/a.p./