Hosted by Albania, the conference included Chiefs of Defence from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and observer nations Kosovo and Slovenia. The focus was on reaffirming their commitment to regional security, cooperation, and interoperability. U.S. Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, commander of U.S. European Command and Supreme Allied Commander Europe, emphasised the importance of sustained cooperation.
"Regional security is a shared responsibility. It requires close, sustained coordination. For 21 years now, the Adriatic Charter members have worked together towards a common goal of peace and prosperity in Europe. This annual conference is an important venue to continue our strategic dialogue," said General Cavoli.
Looking ahead, it's about shape, moulding conditions to be more favourable to us. Then, rehearse by practising the regional plan. Finally, learn—to ensure we're extracting all the lessons from both shaping and rehearsing, and quickly incorporating them back into our plans for continuous improvement in our efforts to deter and defend
During the conference, leaders discussed pressing security challenges in the Western Balkans and expressed strong solidarity with Ukraine in the wake of Russia's unprovoked invasion. The Adriatic Charter nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening military cooperation and strengthening relations to enhance regional security and bolster their collective defensive capabilities.
U.S. Navy Admiral Stuart B. Munsch emphasised the importance of integrating NATO’s strategic plans and maintaining interoperability among Adriatic Charter nations during discussions with senior military leaders at the 27th US-Adriatic Charter Chiefs of Defence (CHODs) Conference in Tirana, Albania, Sept. 17-19, 2024.
Admiral Munsch reinforced the need for dynamic action from all participants, emphasising three key words guiding JFC Naples this year: shape, rehearse, and learn.
"Looking ahead, it's about shape, moulding conditions to be more favourable to us. Then, rehearse by practising the regional plan. Finally, learn—to ensure we're extracting all the lessons from both shaping and rehearsing, and quickly incorporating them back into our plans for continuous improvement in our efforts to deter and defend," said Admiral Munsch.
The conference also featured participation from U.S. National Guard senior leadership from Colorado, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ohio, and Vermont, which are partnered with the Adriatic Charter and observer nations through the State Partnership Program (SPP). This year marks the 30th anniversary of the SPP, which has played a vital role in building enduring military relationships between the U.S. and these nations.
Admiral Munsch highlighted the significance of integrating NATO’s strategic plans and underscored the need for maintaining interoperability among Adriatic Charter nations. He emphasized that the success of NATO’s goals relies heavily on cooperation and a shared vision of security, noting that such partnerships are essential for ensuring the readiness to deter and defend against any threat.
The Adriatic Charter, established in 2003, continues to serve as a key forum for promoting peace, security, and stability in Southeast Europe. This conference further strengthened the bonds between these nations, reaffirming their commitment to shared values and Euro-Atlantic security.