New US Ambassador to Albania Eric Wendt formally began his diplomatic mission on Saturday. He presented his credentials to President Bajram Begaj at the Palace of Brigades. The two also held a private meeting.

Wendt has more than 34 years of service in the US military, much of it with the Green Berets. He has also held senior positions in NATO special operations structures. During his May 20 hearing in the US Senate, he outlined his priorities for Albania.

His priorities include fighting corruption, organised crime and drug trafficking. He also highlighted stronger cooperation in defence and cybersecurity. Wendt expressed support for the Special Prosecution Office and its cooperation with US law enforcement agencies. He said its work remains essential in fighting corruption and organised crime as long as it maintains its independence and remains protected from political influence.

Wendt is also expected to meet senior Albanian officials in the first days of his mission. His first meeting with Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha is scheduled for Wednesday. On October 2, the US Embassy in Tirana will hold the official ceremony to introduce the new ambassador.

/a.p./