Defense minister to assist Kosovo army upgrade

TIRANA, Feb. 16 – Defense Minister Arben Imami is on an official two-day visit to neighboring Kosovo where he has pledged Albania’s assistance to help upgrade its army.
Imami met with all top leaders there including President Fatmir Sejdiu, Prime Minister Hashim Thaci, Parliament Speaker Jakup Krasniqi, Defense Minister Fehmi Mujota and others to talk about Kosovo’s stiatuion of stability and security.
Imami also thanked the Kosovo army for the contingent of support sent to Albania in January this year to help during the emergency situation following extensive flooding in the northwest.
Imami also told Kosovo officials that Tirana was making its efforts to make Kosovo present in all the international meetings it takes part in an effort to help its integration as a new state in the world.
The two minsiters also signed an agrement on the cooperation.
Kosovo is to celebrate its seconf anniversary of indepepdence Feb. 17, something which Imami said produces security and stability in the Balkan region.
During the visit Imami also met with KFOR commander Gen. Bentler.
Albania is a new NATO member but Tirana has made it clear that due to political reasons they are not to take part in the international peacekeeping force there.
Kosovo, made up of ethnic Albanians, part of Serbia, as well, but declared independence in 2008.