WHO/WHAT: Albanian Defense Minister Gazmend Oketa is honored at a luncheon at the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Headquarters.

Mr. Oketa's visit coincides with the 15th Anniversary of his nation's participation in the Partnership for Peace with the New Jersey National Guard. During the course of the partnership, soldiers and airmen from New Jersey have assisted Albania's military as the nation transitioned from a communist regime to a representative democracy.

Troops from New Jersey assisted with all aspects of the transition, from the drafting of Albania's constitution to the professionalization of its military's non-commissioned officer corps.

The partnership yielded results. In April, Albania will achieve its long-standing goal of membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

WHEN: Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 1 p.m.

WHERE: National Guard Armory, 131 Eggerts Crossing Road, Lawrenceville