In the framework of his visit to Washington, Minister of Foreign Affairs Ditmir Bushati held meetings at the State Department and the Pentagon, with Deputy Secretary of State Thomas Shannon and with Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Theresa Whelan.

At meeting with Deputy Secretary of State Tom Shannon interlocutors discussed the strengthening of cooperation between the two countries in the framework of the strategic partnership, as well as increasing cooperation in facing common challenges such as the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

Minister Bushati informed Deputy Secretary of State on internal developments, with special focus on the reforms undertaken by the Albanian government, especially the justice reform and efforts made on implementing the Vetting law.

While reaffirming the close partnership between the two countries, Deputy Secretary Shannon highlighted “The United States’ strong support on the implementation of the justice reform as well as the joint commitment on protecting democratic values, the rule of law and human rights”.

Minister Bushati thanked Deputy Secretary Shannon “for the United States’ continuous support to Albania and the region, on strengthening peace, democratic stability and state-consolidating reforms”.

In this context, Deputy Secretary Shannon called on “all political parties in Albania to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections”.

Interlocutors dwelled on the latest developments in the region, Albania’s constructive role in strengthening regional cooperation, as well as the importance of our country's contribution in improving the security environment in South-East Europe.

Parties agreed that the progress of state-consolidating reforms and the cooperation spirit, along with the Euro-Atlantic values and perspective, remain the main axes of strengthening peace and democratic stability in our region.

At meeting with Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Theresa Whelan, Minister Bushati thanked the USA for its versatile support on Albania’s security sector reform and modernization of Armed Forces.

Minister Bushati informed Under Secretary Whelan about Albania's increased role in NATO missions and operations, as well as on its substantial contribution to the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

Minister Bushati reconfirmed our country’s determination on continuing with the materialization of the commitments made at NATO Summits in Whales and Warsaw, including budget increase and investments in the defense field.

Interlocutors stressed the need of an increased attention to the region and coordinating efforts on strengthening democratic stability and improving the security environment.​