Albania is ramping up its role in the EU’s ALTHEA mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, sending 30 additional troops to strengthen its presence. For the first time, a unit from the Light Infantry Battalion of the Albanian Ground Forces will join the operation, expanding beyond Albania’s usual contribution of staff officers.
The farewell ceremony at Zall-Herr barracks saw the participation of top officials, including Defense Minister Pirro Vengu, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani, Turkish Ambassador Tayyar Ka?an Atay, and EU Chargé d’Affaires Andre Rizzo.
Minister Vengu emphasized Albania’s deepening commitment to EU policies, noting the country’s permanent deployment of 500 personnel in global missions. “This is proof that Albania is not just aligned with the EU’s security policy — we’re acting on it,” he said, highlighting Albania’s growing responsibility amid EU withdrawals.
He also expressed thanks to Turkey for its support, with Albania’s contingent operating under Turkish command. Ambassador Atay marked the new operation as another milestone in the strong Albanian-Turkish military cooperation.
The first Albanian team in the ALTHEA mission, including one female soldier, will serve for six months at Camp Butmir in Sarajevo, further solidifying Albania’s role in ensuring regional peace and stability.
