Ermal Nufi officially assumes office as Defence Minister: Armed Forces Modernization and Revitalization of the Military Industry a Priority

Ermal Nufi officially assumes office as Defence Minister: Armed Forces Modernization and Revitalization of the Military Industry a Priority

Defence Minister Ermal Nufi has officially assumed office at the helm of the Ministry of Defense during a special ceremony held at the Skanderbeg Garrison.

The duty was handed over by the outgoing minister, Pirro Vengu, in the presence of senior leaders of the Albanian Armed Forces, generals, and international partners.

In his first address, Minister Nufi emphasized the responsibility this institution carries for the country's security and for Albania's role in the international security architecture:"Today I assume the duty of Minister of Defense of the Republic of Albania with a deep sense of honor, but above all with full awareness of the responsibility this institution carries for the security of our country," - Minister Nufi stated.

He thanked Prime Minister Edi Rama for the trust placed in him and also acknowledged the contribution of his predecessor Pirro Vengu in leading the institution and supporting the Albanian Armed Forces.

Continuing his remarks, Minister Nufi stressed that national security is built on the dedication of those who serve in uniform and on strong institutional cooperation: "A country's security is not built only through strategies or politically and doctrinally clear documents. It is built every day by people, by the men and women who wear the uniform, by commanders and leaders who make difficult decisions, and by institutions that remain strong even in times of uncertainty. Therefore, today I would like to express my deepest respect for every member of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Albania, as well as the civilian and administrative staff of the Ministry of Defense, Civil Emergencies, and all institutions under this ministry," the Minister of Defense emphasized.

Minister Nufi also underlined that one of the main priorities will be the modernization of the Armed Forces, the development of defense capabilities, and the strengthening of Albania's role within international alliances: "One of the priorities of this Ministry, in line with the political will of the Prime Minister, remains the development and modernization of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Albania, the revitalization of the military industry, the increase of capacities to address civil emergencies, as well as paving the way for innovation in the field of defense, in full compliance with NATO standards in order to ensure the effectiveness of all our structures," Minister Nufi stated.

In his remarks, he also highlighted the importance of NATO's role as the strongest guarantee for the country's security and Albania's commitment as an active and reliable ally within the Alliance.