Thewesternbalkans
The head of the government Edi Rama and minister of Defense Niko Peleshi were present at the opening of the Innovation, Security and Defense Center.
In his speech, Rama emphasized that this is another step in the modernization of the Albanian Army and also creates optimal conditions for the development of new technologies, not only in the field of security and defense, but also in the function of modernization of governance and support of the private sector.
“We are preparing the new platform for the development of the military industry. A platform that today is the time to include it in the entire legislative body of the Republic of Albania and then on it to start a wave of investments in the defense industry”, said Rama.
The prime minister expressed the ambition to have military exports of the Made in Albania brand within 2030. “We are a small country, but we have great allies”, declared Rama.
The Minister of Defense said that Albania already has the opportunity to move quickly in the field of technology. “We are part of the NATO network, we have the opportunity to build more defense power, with as few resources as possible. This town will be the starting point for many security, defense and civil defense startups. In order to build the first Albanian patents for increasing national capacities. Today we will sign the agreements with mentoring, as well as the agreement for cooperation and mutual support. Innovation will become a daily work practice.”
The center will have as its mission the promotion of innovation and all processes related to it through support, monitoring and evaluation of programs, technology and projects belonging to the field of security and defense.
Comment: Despite the long horizon for f the intended Kosovo’s military exports (2030), Pristina has already expressed willingness to provide military aid to Ukraine (during a meeting of the Contact Group on Aid to Ukraine in March). Aid is expected to consist of mortars and ammunition for them, armored vehicles and medical supplies. In January, Pristina signed a military cooperation agreement with Ankara, which may also include the production of ammunition.
