Albania has begun to concretize its commitment to the international peacekeeping mission in Gaza, taking the first steps towards the deployment of military personnel.
The Council of Ministers approved this Wednesday the draft law on the engagement of the Armed Forces in the military operation of the International Stability Force, which provides that the maximum number of Armed Forces personnel who can participate in the mission is 40 military personnel.
According to the document, the mission of the Albanian contingent will include supporting security and stability operations, protecting mission personnel, facilities and infrastructure, supporting humanitarian operations, monitoring and reporting on the security situation, as well as other tasks in accordance with the mission's mandate, within the framework of the Peace Board.
The draft law also provides that participating military personnel, in addition to their monthly salary, will benefit from a per diem for the days spent in the operation, to the extent to be determined by decision of the Council of Ministers.
Earlier in the day, Defense Minister Ermal Nufi announced that the Albanian delegation will initially start with four staff officers.
After the government meeting, Nufi said that the draft act will be sent to the Assembly for approval and that the decision is in accordance with the mandate of the United Nations Security Council and the International Stabilization Force.
"The Republic of Albania will have a representation in Gaza, starting initially with four staff officers. With the arrival of these four staff officers in the International Stabilization Force, the specific level of troops that will be sent to Gaza will be assessed, including the specific location where these troops will be deployed," the minister said.