During her official visit to the United States, the Minister of Defense of Albania, Olta Xhaçka was received by Secretary of Defense James Mattis, who expressed the US support in all respects for Albania.
"The Albania - Mattis said, - is our ally not only in uniform but in all respects. You will always have our help".
"Albania has shown that its geographic size is far less important than its engagement in the Alliance." Mattis said, adding that Albania strikes harder than its weight.While Xhacka said that "the Western Balkans is a western-oriented region. We share and protect the same principles and values, and welcome the strengthening of our strategic partnership. "
"We invite you to kindly consider Albania as a contact point in the region. We will continue to play a constructive role for peace, security and prosperity in our region." said Xhaçka.
The US can rely on us, she said, expressing her confidence that it is time to see a trace in Albania. "A US or NATO presence in Albania is a demonstration that this area is not forgotten by our allies." she underlined.
She expressed the readiness to make available the naval bases, ground, air, naval capabilities of Albania.
"We want to see an increase in the presence of the US defense industry in Albania." said Xhaçka.