Brussels, 15 July 2024
The EU Council today adopted an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility worth €13 million to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Albanian Armed Forces, notably in terms of mobility, manoeuvrability and protection. The assistance measure will also strengthen Albania’s capacities with respect to its participation in the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) operations and missions, and any international coalitions.
Albania is a reliable security partner and EU candidate country. Today’s decision is an important milestone in our security and defence cooperation. It also reflects our appreciation for Albania’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, which is a very clear expression of Albania’s strategic choice for a future within the EU.
Josep Borrell, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
The decision is a concrete deliverable of the growing engagement with Albania in the security and defence domain, reflecting Albania’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.
The European Peace Facility will provide equipment not designed to deliver lethal force and, where needed, related supplies and services, including technical training. The Albanian Land Force will receive light armoured multipurpose vehicles. These vehicles are equipped to provide high mobility and manoeuvrability in all type of terrain and weather conditions and ensure the protection of personnel against light weapons and explosives.
Background and next steps
The European Peace Facility was established in March 2021 for the financing of actions under the Common Foreign and Security Policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace and strengthen international security and stability. In particular, the European Peace Facility allows the EU to finance actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third States and regional and international organisations relating to military and defence matters.