European Peace Facility: Council adopts the second bilateral assistance measure in support of the Albanian Armed Forces
The Council today adopted the second bilateral assistance measure under the European Peace Facility of EUR 15 million with the aim of strengthening defence capacities and capabilities of the Albanian Armed Forces, bringing the total amount of support to Albania to EUR 28 million to date. The decision complements the support already provided by the EU and aims to further strengthen the ability of the Albanian Armed Forces to deploy timely and effectively.
The assistance measure will also enhance Albania’s potential to contribute to the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) operations and missions and international coalitions.
High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy said: “Albania is a close and consistent foreign and security policy partner of the EU, a contributor to EU operations, and a NATO ally. Strengthening our security and defence cooperation with Albania directly reinforces European stability, security, and peace.”
Today’s decision illustrates the EU’s strong continued engagement with Albania on security and defence. It also reflects the mutual commitment to strengthen cooperation in this field, building on the signature of the Security and Defence Partnership between the EU and Albania in November 2024 and the launch of the first Security and Defence Dialogue in April 2025. The adoption of a new support package recognises Albania’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Through the European Peace Facility measure, the EU will provide to the Albanian Armed Forces light armoured multipurpose vehicles, as well as tactical and engineering vehicles and, where needed, related supplies and services, including operational and maintenance training.
Background and next steps
The European Peace Facility was established in March 2021 for the financing of actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace and strengthen international security and stability. In particular, the European Peace Facility allows the EU to finance actions designed to strengthen the capacities of third States and regional and international organisations relating to military and defence matters. The first bilateral assistance measure under the European Peace Facility in support of Albanian Armed Forces worth EUR 13 million was adopted in July 2024.
> European Peace Facility, policy page
> EU cooperation on security and defence (background information)