Rear Admiral Arsen Mullaj assumes command of the Naval Force; Minister Vengu: Modernization a strategic government priority

Rear Admiral Arsen Mullaj assumes command of the Naval Force; Minister Vengu: Modernization a strategic government priority

At a special ceremony, Rear Admiral Arsen Mullaj officially assumed duty as Commander of the Naval Force, following his appointment by decree of the President of the Republic. He succeeds Vice Admiral Adnand Agastra, who has completed his mandate at the head of the Naval Force.

The handover ceremony was attended by Defence Minister Pirro Vengu, who described the change of command as part of professional continuity and the strengthening of leadership within the Armed Forces. Minister Vengu expressed his appreciation for the contribution and leadership demonstrated by Vice Admiral Agastra throughout a long career in service to the country.

In his address, Defence Minister Vengu emphasized the Albanian Government's commitment to the recovery and modernization of the Naval Force, describing the maritime domain as a national strategic priority:

"Over more than 30 years of transition, the Naval Force has gradually diminished and has relied primarily on the professionalism of its personnel-men and women in uniform, particularly where assets, equipment, vessels, and support systems were lacking. I sincerely hope that in the months and years ahead, together with the new commander and the entire Naval Force Staff, we will enable a gradual recovery." - said Minister Vengu.

According to him, this remains a priority for the Albanian Government, repeatedly articulated by the Prime Minister, and is rooted in restoring Albania's maritime horizon and its Adriatic-Ionian dimension:

"This cannot be achieved without assets, without ships, without warships, and without logistical vessels. For this reason, the Albanian Government has committed not only the necessary funding, but also the appropriate legal framework for the revitalization of Pashaliman as a strategic shipyard, serving not only our forces, but also allied forces." - emphasized Defence Minister Pirro Vengu.

In conclusion, Minister Vengu wished success to the new commander, the personnel of the Naval Force, and their families, underscoring the objective of building a modern naval force, fully integrated into the North Atlantic Alliance and ready to defend national interests and maritime security.