Defense Minister Niko Peleshi participated in a meeting with representatives from the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA), NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), and the US Department of Defense, alongside chambers of commerce, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and businesses. This event, titled “Industry Day,” aimed to inform Albanian economic operators about procurement procedures, legislation, and conditions required for participation in international contracts, while fostering collaboration between Albanian businesses and NATO agencies.
During his address, Minister Peleshi encouraged business representatives to apply for and benefit from these projects. He expressed the Ministry of Defense’s commitment to facilitating cooperation between Albanian private operators and experienced NATO entities.
“The global rise in conflicts has significantly increased demand for weapons, food, and other goods procured through NATO agencies. We invite you to seize these contracting opportunities. Albanian companies have over 30 years of experience and have earned trust abroad due to their high standards.” – noted the Defence Minister.
Speaking at the Innovation Center, Minister Peleshi highlighted upcoming projects that will support local businesses. He emphasized the evolving relationship between the Ministry of Defense and the business sector: “Until recently, there was a perceived barrier between our Ministry and the business world, but today’s landscape of innovation and technology tells a different story. We now have substantial national and NATO-related opportunities awaiting exploration.”
Minister Peleshi also discussed a new initiative to revitalize Albania’s military industry: “We are diligently establishing the legal and institutional framework for our military industry. Emerging from a history of military rule and subsequent demilitarization, Albania, as a NATO member, aims to play a pivotal role in the Alliance’s defense industry. We possess historical assets that, with joint investments, can be reactivated. This year marks the inception of a new industry, and we invite both foreign and Albanian investors, including those new to the sector, to partner with us.”
Industry Day originated from an idea conceived in Brussels in February. Minister Peleshi acknowledged Dorina Cani, a contract officer at the NATO Communication and Information Agency (NCIA), for her contributions to organizing the event and providing essential information to business representatives.
