Hoxha at NATO base in Pristina: Albania’s national security has been compromised, country faces serious risks

Security in the region and the state of Albania’s institutions were the focus of Lisandër Hoxha’s remarks following a visit to Pristina. The Democratic Party National Council member attended a dinner at the NATO military base and met with representatives of security organizations and prominent Albanian figures.

Speaking about the situation in Albania, Hoxha expressed concern that the country’s national security structures have been undermined and that a significant part of its security chain has been compromised. He criticized the approach to fighting crime and corruption, arguing that protecting democracy requires institutions that act with professionalism and integrity.

In his comments on the visit, Hoxha said he had been to NATO’s Intelligence Office. There, he met with the former commander of the G2 Intelligence and Security Office and offered his best wishes to the organization’s new head. According to Hoxha, their discussion covered shared security concerns and threats to the region, including terrorism, hybrid warfare and international organized crime.

For Hoxha, strengthening Albania’s security capabilities must go hand in hand with consolidating democratic institutions and the rule of law. He stressed that this process must be supported by cooperation with NATO and the backing of the United States of America.

The visit to Pristina also included meetings with Ukë Rugova, a Kosovo lawmaker and son of former president Ibrahim Rugova, and Naim Dedushaj, executive director of Albanian Diaspora Business. Their discussions focused on developments in Albania and Kosovo, the challenges the two countries share and their Euro-Atlantic prospects.

Hoxha gave particular recognition to the Albanian diaspora in the United States and other parts of the world. He described its contribution to conveying Albanians’ interests and concerns to international allies as vital.

Concluding his remarks, Hoxha said that a Euro-Atlantic orientation must remain the path for Albania and Kosovo, with Ibrahim Rugova’s political vision as a guide. He said joint efforts should serve the development of both countries and strengthen the role of Albanians in the region.