Strengthening security: The Croatia – Albania – Kosovo Pact

Selim Ibraimi- Albania, Croatia, and Kosovo have signed a defense pact that has angered Serbs. Last week, officials from the three countries highlighted the pact’s significance for security. They discussed its role in improving the security situation in the region. They emphasized good relations between the countries and a future in Western institutions. The document was formalized by Albania’s Defence Minister Pirro Vengu. It was also formalized by Croatia’s Defence Minister Ivan Anusic and Kosovo’s Defence Minister Ejup Maqedonci. The declaration, they said, paves the way for expanded defense cooperation, partnerships in the military industry, joint exercises, and more. Minister Anusic stressed the importance of adapting to new geopolitical realities by strengthening existing alliances.
“We recognize the security risks in Southeastern Europe, particularly in the context of Ukraine.” “This initiative builds on our 35 years of independence. It also leverages our experience as a member of NATO and the EU,” he said. He also emphasized the long-standing friendship between Croatia, Albania, and Kosovo. He underlined that their cooperation is based on mutual interests and a shared commitment to regional stability. According to him, the Declaration is open to the membership of other NATO and EU partners.
This strategic development reflects the close alliance between the three nations. They are linked by history and common sacrifices for freedom. They also share a common vision for a secure future. “We share a common assessment of threats in an increasingly fragile security environment. In this context, our commitment to developing our defense capabilities is stronger than ever,” said Minister Pirro Vengu.
Kosovo’s Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, said that this memorandum does not threaten anyone. It is a message to all those who dare to jeopardize security, peace, and stability in the Western Balkans. “This is a Declaration that paves the way for much greater cooperation between our countries. The purpose of this cooperation is not to threaten anyone. It aims to send a message. This message is directed at all those who dare to jeopardize security, peace, and stability in the Western Balkans.”
Meanwhile, the Serbian Foreign Ministry announced that it will send an urgent request to Albania and Croatia. They are seeking clarifications on a trilateral defense cooperation agreement with Kosovo. In terms of military alliances, regional governments tend to be in rival positions. They see military force as a component to change the military balance. Currently, Serbia has partnered with the Chinese and Russians. Additionally, it has aligned with the West. Through these partnerships, it has managed to modernize its armed forces. For this reason, Croatia, Albania, and Kosovo must work hard to surpass Serbia in defense spending and military modernization. Because Kosovo has limited opportunities in this alliance, the burden falls on Albania and Croatia. According to the latest data for 2023, Serbia’s military spending was reported to be approximately $2.14 billion.
Trading Economics noted an increase to $2,135.80 million in 2023 from $1,723.50 million in 2022. Historically, Serbia’s budget has seen significant increases. For example, the budget increased from $1.14 billion in 2019 to $1.43 billion in 2022, reflecting a trend of increasing military investment. Croatia’s military budget has increased in recent years, reflecting Zagreb’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and fulfilling NATO obligations. In 2023, Croatia’s military spending was reported at around $1.44 billion, up from $1.28 billion in 2022.
Specifically for 2025, sources indicate that the Croatian government has proposed a defense budget of around €1.18 billion (approximately $1.24 billion).
In 2023, Albania’s military spending was reported at around $397.6 million. According to Trading Economics, this is a significant increase from $228.7 million in 2022. For 2025, projections suggest continued growth, with estimates pointing to a defense budget of around $512.8 million, and an annual growth rate of around 7.9%. Kosovo’s military budget has grown significantly in recent years. The government is working to transform the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) into a professional army. Based on available data, in 2023, the military budget reached $208 million. In 2024, the approved budget for the KSF was $143 million.
Albanian-Croatian relations took shape during the 19th and 20th centuries. They brought new dynamics to the Balkans. This occurred after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and Austria-Hungary. Overall, the current alliance has a good foundation. For the last two centuries, Albanian-Croatian relations have focused less on direct rivalry. They have been more about navigating greater geopolitical forces together. Their interactions reflect the broader complexity of the Balkan history. This history is marked by cooperation. The states share aspirations for independence and recognition.
Historically, Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia have had an excellent relationship in good times and bad. Albania and Croatia became members of NATO in 2009. However, the alliance or signing of the military pact could accelerate the Serbs’ stance to secede from Bosnia and Herzegovina. This movement is supported by Serbia and Russia. The future implications of the military trio’s relationship with North Macedonia remain uncertain. This is due to the close relations of the new government in Skopje with Belgrade. The US is trying to reduce its influence and security in Europe. Therefore, the alliance would benefit from integrating Bulgaria. Bulgaria has played an important role throughout history. The region has always been seen as a military spending outlet that has been used for various purposes. The military pact between the three states should take on a concrete role now. It should continue after the new borders in Ukraine are determined.

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