New Dutch built vessel for Albanian army

DURRES, Sep 6 – Last week, a ceremony was held as the Albanian Coast Guard took possession of a new patrol vessel, the ‘Iliria.’ Meeting in the port of Durres, officials noted the boat was purchased using funds received from the Dutch government.
Prime Minister Sali Berisha, Defense Minister Gazmend Oketa, Dutch Ambassador Van Voorst tot Voorst, CEO Ren顂erkvens of “Damen Shipyards” and representatives of the Diplomatic Corps took part in the ceremony.
In November 2007, a contract for delivery of four marine patrol vessels for the Albanian Coast Guard was signed between the Albanian Minister of Defense and the CEO of the Dutch Company, Damen Shipyards.
The total value of the contract amounts to 31 million Euros, of which 11 million Euros has been granted as a subsidy by the Dutch Government as part of the ORET programme.
This programme assists developing countries in need of foreign goods and services by providing special Dutch grants.
“Iliria” has been built in the Netherlands. Three additional vessels will be constructed by the Pashaliman shipyard in Vlora, which will be built specially within the framework of this project.
The building of the shipyard, under the guidance of Dutch supervisors, will generate employment as well as the transfer of knowledge.
The new marine patrol vessels will assist in the modernization of the Albanian Coast Guard, following the Dutch model, and allow for the performance of coast guard services in Albanian waters.