C6F Commander Visits Albania

From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

DURRES, Albania (NNS) -- The commander of U.S. 6th Fleet and commander, Striking and Support Forces NATO visited with counterparts in the Republic of Albania, April 25.

During his visit, Vice Adm. Frank C. Pandolfe hosted a reception for U.S. and Albanian dignitaries aboard the Little Creek, Va., based amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), currently on deployment to the 6th Fleet area of operations.

During the reception, Pandolfe met with Minister of Defense Arben Imami; General Secretary Aleksander Flloko, Office of the President of the Republic; Deputy Minister of Interior Avenir Peka; and U.S. Charge d'Affairs Deborah Jones.

"As NATO allies, we share a common bond and common interests. We will continue to strengthen our enduring partnership to promote security throughout the region," Pandolfe said. "An important way we strengthen our teamwork is through port visits like this, where our Sailors and Marines get to visit this beautiful country and make new friends."

Jones explained that the port visit represents a unique opportunity for Sailors and Marines visiting Albania for the first time.

"This port call represents another opportunity for engagement and cooperation between the United States and Albania. It is a wonderful opportunity for our Sailors and Marines to learn about and experience the history of our newest NATO ally," Jones said. "I am sure that this port call will be quite memorable for the crew of the Gunston Hall, but its impact on Albania will be just as lasting. We look forward to many more visits and opportunities for engagement as we continue to expand and strengthen the relationship between our two countries."

U.S. 6th Fleet headquarters is located in Naples, Italy. It conducts a full range of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation missions in concert with coalition, joint, interagency and other parties to advance security and stability in Europe and Africa.