Thu Sep 19 07:27:34 UTC 2024: ## Adriatic Charter Nations Affirm Support for Ukraine, Discuss Security Challenges

**Tirana, Albania** – Military leaders from the Adriatic Charter nations and observer states met in Tirana, Albania this week to discuss regional security challenges and opportunities in the Western Balkans. The conference, co-chaired by U.S. Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, commander of U.S. European Command, and Maj. Gen. Arben Kingji, chief of the Albanian Armed Forces General Staff, underscored the importance of collaboration and shared values in a complex geopolitical environment.

The conference, held from September 17-19, brought together chiefs of defense from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, as well as delegations from Kosovo and Slovenia. Discussions focused on a range of pressing security issues, including:

* **Support for Ukraine:** Leaders reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to Ukraine’s fight for democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
* **Regional Security:** The conference addressed the fragility of the Western Balkans in the face of malign interference from state and non-state actors.
* **Cyber Defense:** Participants emphasized the need for enhanced cyber defense capabilities to address evolving threats.
* **Logistics & Cooperation:** The conference highlighted the importance of improved and resilient logistics systems, as well as continued efforts toward Euro-Atlantic integration.

“Regional security is a shared responsibility,” stated Gen. Cavoli, emphasizing the need for close coordination and collaboration. “The nations assembled here today represent more than just a commitment to security, they represent the choice to embrace shared values.”

Maj. Gen. Kingji echoed this sentiment, highlighting the comprehensive approach required to defend sovereignty beyond the armed forces, involving all societal actors and institutions.

The conference also saw participation from senior leaders from the U.S. National Guard State Partnership Program states partnered with the Adriatic Charter nations.

Prior to the conference, Gen. Cavoli met with Albanian heads of state, including President Bajram Begaj, Prime Minister Edi Rama, and Defense Minister Piroo Vengu, to strengthen bilateral partnerships and security cooperation efforts.

The Adriatic Charter Chiefs of Defense Conference, held annually in various European locations, serves as a key component of USEUCOM’s approach to regional security, fostering enduring partnerships and strengthening cooperation among Allied nations.

Read More