The European Council has sanctioned a second measure of bilateral aid under the European Peace Mechanism, totaling 15 million euros, aimed at enhancing the capabilities and defensive strength of the Albanian Armed Forces. This brings the overall support for Albania to 28 million euros thus far.
Silvio Gonzato, the Ambassador of the European Union Delegation in Tirana, remarked today that this represents a significant advancement in the EU-Albania partnership concerning security and defense.
“Albania is a steadfast and reliable partner of the European Union in foreign and security policy,” Ambassador Gonzato stated after the endorsement of the second assistance measure for the Albanian Armed Forces.
This decision builds upon existing support from the EU and is intended to further improve the deployability of Albania’s military.
The assistance will also bolster Albania’s capabilities to participate in the operations and missions under the EU’s Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP), as well as in international coalitions.
Kaja Kallas, the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, highlighted that “Albania is a consistent and enduring partner of the EU in both foreign and security policies, contributing to EU missions and serving as a NATO ally.”
Kallas stressed that “strengthening our cooperation with Albania in security and defense directly enhances stability, security, and peace across Europe.”
The Council’s decision signifies the EU’s steadfast and continuous support for Albania’s security and defense efforts. It reflects a shared commitment to bolster collaboration in this domain, following the signing of the Security and Defense Partnership between the EU and Albania in November 2024 and the initiation of the first Security and Defense Dialogue in April 2025.
The approval of this new assistance package acknowledges Albania’s complete alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Through the European Peace Mechanism, the EU will supply the Albanian Armed Forces with multi-functional light armored vehicles, as well as tactical and engineering vehicles, and, when needed, essential supplies and services, including operational and maintenance training.
The European Peace Mechanism was established in March 2021 to fund initiatives under the common foreign and security policy aimed at conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and the enhancement of international security and stability.
Specifically, the European Peace Mechanism allows the EU to finance efforts to strengthen the abilities of third countries and regional and international organizations concerning military and defense matters.
The first measure of bilateral aid under the European Peace Mechanism for the Albanian Armed Forces, valued at 13 million euros, was approved in July 2024. (July 28)
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