Albania to Receive Kamikaze Drones from Turkey as Defense…

Albania will acquire kamikaze drones from Turkey as announced by Prime Minister Edi Rama during a visit from Turkish President Erdogan. These military enhancements are deemed defensive, and Turkey continues to strengthen its partnership with Albania, highlighted by the inauguration of the Namazgah mosque and discussions on trade and cooperation.

Albania is set to receive a significant number of kamikaze drones from Turkey, as announced by Prime Minister Edi Rama during a press conference following a visit from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Prime Minister Rama stated, “It is a present that comes as a strong message from the Republic of Turkey that Albania is unhittable.” Kamikaze drones, described as loitering munitions, function by cruising toward their targets before descending at high speed to detonate upon impact. Details regarding the specific type and quantity of drones were not disclosed by government representatives. Furthermore, while reiterating Albania’s military strengthening in the aftermath of geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Rama emphasized that the acquisition of these drones does not indicate intent to engage in aggression towards any nation. Albania, alongside Turkey, is a NATO member and has previously acquired Turkish Bayraktar reconnaissance and attack drones. Additionally, President Erdogan’s visit to Tirana included the inauguration of the Namazgah mosque, a significant Turkish-funded project that features 50-meter-high minarets, making it one of the largest mosques in the Balkans. The mosque’s construction began in 2015 with investments exceeding €30 million from the Turkish Diyanet, the state-run Islamic organization. During diplomatic discussions, Turkey and Albania affirmed their commitment to enhance cooperation in agriculture and education, with Erdogan aiming to double their bilateral trade to €2 billion. On regional matters, President Erdogan condemned the actions of Israel in the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, labeling the situation a “genocide” and asserting the necessity for an immediate ceasefire for humanitarian assistance. Prime Minister Rama also advocated for a cessation of hostilities but cautioned against using violence to achieve goals, indicating that rent-seeking entities such as Hamas have no place in the pursuit of lasting peace for both Israel and Palestine. Overall, this development in military procurement and the strengthening of Turkish-Albanian relations signify a shift in regional dynamics, underscoring the strategic partnership both nations share within NATO and their collective endeavors in addressing broader international concerns.

The acquisition of military drones and advancements in regional security come against a backdrop of evolving geopolitical tensions, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Western Balkans, including Albania, are witnessing upgrades to their military capabilities in response to perceived threats, leading to collaborations with NATO allies. Albania’s ties with Turkey are historically significant, establishing Ankara as a key investor and partner in various sectors, including infrastructure.

In summary, Albania’s impending acquisition of kamikaze drones from Turkey represents a notable development in the regional security landscape, as Prime Minister Rama aims to reassure that such advancements are defensive rather than offensive. The recent inauguration of the Namazgah mosque further underscores the strengthening of Turkish-Albanian relations, with both leaders advocating for enhanced cooperation and addressing critical regional issues.

Original Source: www.ekathimerini.com