Albania is set to receive a considerable number of kamikaze drones from Turkey, as announced by Prime Minister Edi Rama, during President Erdoğan’s recent visit. The military enhancement occurs within the context of ongoing regional modernization following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Erdogan also inaugurated the Namazgah mosque in Tirana, representing a significant cultural investment from Turkey, aimed at fostering bilateral cooperation.
The Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, has announced that Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is set to provide Albania with a significant number of kamikaze drones, although details regarding the specific type and quantity remain undisclosed. During a recent joint press conference, Rama articulated that this gesture represents a “strong message from the Republic of Turkey that Albania is unhittable.” Kamikaze drones, described as loitering munitions, are designed to fly towards a target before crashing into it and detonating. Rama emphasized that the acquisition of these drones does not signify that Albania intends to engage in military aggression. This announcement coincides with a broader trend in the Western Balkans, where nations are modernizing their military capabilities in light of heightened security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Both Albania and Turkey are NATO members, with Albania having previously acquired Turkish-made Bayraktar reconnaissance and attack drones. President Erdogan’s visit to Albania was also marked by the inauguration of the Namazgah mosque, a significant Turkish-funded structure featuring 50-meter-high minarets. This mosque, one of the largest in the Balkans, is part of Turkey’s initiative to strengthen bilateral ties and encourage regional cooperation in areas such as agriculture and education. Erdogan expressed aspirations to double the annual trade between the two nations to €2 billion. In addition to discussions surrounding drone acquisitions and economic partnerships, the leaders addressed current regional conflicts. Erdogan condemned the Israeli military actions in Gaza, labeling them as “genocide” and calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow humanitarian assistance. Conversely, Rama acknowledged the dire need for a ceasefire while asserting that organizations such as Hamas must not play a role in the future peace of both Israel and Palestine. The Namazgah Mosque, constructed at a cost of €30 million by the state-run Turkish Muslim organization Diyanet, includes a cultural center and is designed to accommodate approximately 8,000 worshippers. Its construction, initially begun in 2015, faced delays due to concerns about the influence of the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO), which Turkey blames for a failed coup attempt in 2016.
In the wake of geopolitical tensions, particularly following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, countries in the Western Balkans, including Albania, have taken steps to enhance their military capabilities. The partnership between Albania and Turkey represents a strategic alliance within NATO, emphasizing mutual defense and cooperation. The recent discussions, including military acquisitions and infrastructural investments, underscore the importance of strengthening ties in both defense and economic sectors. Additionally, the inauguration of the Namazgah mosque highlights Turkey’s cultural investment in the region, reflecting a commitment to fostering Islamic community and cooperation.
In conclusion, Albania’s prospective acquisition of kamikaze drones from Turkey signifies a strengthening of military capabilities amidst regional security concerns. The inauguration of the Namazgah mosque not only enhances cultural ties but also demonstrates Turkey’s commitment to supporting Albania’s development. Both leaders’ calls for a ceasefire in ongoing conflicts highlight the geopolitical complexities in the region, underscoring the need for peaceful resolutions to ensure stability. The collaborative efforts in military and economic sectors between Albania and Turkey signify a formidable alliance that may influence regional dynamics moving forward.
Original Source: www.ekathimerini.com
