US urges fast disposal of Albania’s excess ammo

TIRANA, June 10 – Daniel P. Fata, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for European and NATO Policy, has requested Albanian authorities to speed up disposing excess ammunition which, he urged, not be sold outside the country.
In an interview with the Voice of America, Fata hailed the excellent military ties existing between the United States and Albania.
Fata praised ongoing military reforms in Albania, which has resulted in Albania being seen as a strong candidate for NATO membership.
Fata further said Albania has contributed to NATO security by taking part in many missions, such as in Afghanistan.
Fata denied that the Pentagon was involved in the March 15 blast in Gerdec, where a so-called factory disposed of excess ammunition.
Twenty-six persons died and 302 were injured during the blast that also devastated a large area.
Fata acknowledge that Washington had financially assisted Albania with millions of dollars to dispose of excess ammunition during recent years and considered that process a priority for Tirana.
However, Fata adamantly denied that the Pentagon was directly involved in the Gerdec incident.
The official referred to such excessive quantities of ammunition in Albania as being very dangerous and urged it be taken care of.
Meanwhile, former Defense Minister Fatmir Mediu has been accused of abuse of post, though parliament must lift his immunity before he can be charged with any crime.
Two other ministry officials and two businessmen have also been arrested and accused of negligence.
Fata said that Albania should not move backwards as it proceeds in its integration efforts in NATO. The country should continue reforms, strengthen the army and rule of law, fight corruption, and create a strong economy.