site.btaNew NATO Airbase Inaugurated in Albania

A new tactical airbase of NATO was inaugurated in Kucove, South Central Albania on Monday, the Albanian Daily News reported.

Defence Minister Niko Peleshi said at the ceremony that this will be the main base of Albania's Air Force. It will be an important point for NATO and the region, he added.

David Wisner, Charge d'Affaires at the United States Embassy in Tirana, who was also at the ceremony, said that Albania has proven it is a reliable partner in the defence of common Western values.

He added that despite the challenges, NATO remains the most stable and successful alliance in history.

Earlier, Albanian Air Force Commander Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Dimo said NATO has invested EUR 50 million in the airbase and the Albanian government has contributed more than EUR 5 million. It will be possible to deploy and train NATO troops and to service NATO flights at the new facility.

Albania joined NATO in 2009.