Begaj: Albania supports BiH's territorial integrity, we continue participation in the Althea Eufor mission

(Patria) - President of Albania Bajram Begaj held a meeting with members of the BiH Presidency, after which he addressed a press conference together with the Chairman of the BiH Presidency Denis Bećirović.

"It is very important that today we clearly state that Albania is a strategic ally and friend to BiH, and therefore it is important for us to deepen relations with Albania. The message from the President of Albania that he firmly supports the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of BiH is important," said Bećirović.

Bećirović expressed his gratitude and said that Begaj was one of the first presidents from the region to express readiness to directly help us after the catastrophic floods.

"Kurti made a unilateral decision to abolish the visa regime for BiH citizens. After this statesmanlike move, I expect BiH and us to make an adequate move," said Bećirović.

He also said that they discussed the promotion and opening of the Sarajevo - Tirana airline, which would be important for our citizens and businessmen.

"In terms of foreign policy priorities, the strategic goals are identical, both countries want full membership in the EU, the state bodies of BiH have decided that the goal is full membership in NATO. We also want good regional cooperation," said Bećirović.

Bećirović added that it is important to complete the ratification of the agreement on economic cooperation, the agreement on mutual recognition of driving licenses, and the agreement on the cooperation process during accession to the EU.

When it comes to economic cooperation, it was stated that the space for economic cooperation is huge and that existing trends should be continued.

He also said that the diaspora is a special bridge of cooperation. The Albanian minority in BiH is well integrated into our society. Albania adopted a law on national minorities in 2017. It is estimated that 6,000 to 10,000 people from BiH live in Albania.

The Albanian president said that Albania has traditionally good relations with BiH, which will continue to develop.

He emphasized that an integrated Albanian community lives in BiH, just as a Bosniak community lives in Albania, which has all rights.

"The fact is that our communities are the main bridge for forming and maintaining good relations," he stated.

He emphasized that Albania supports the territorial integrity and sovereignty of BiH and that Albania will continue its participation in the EUFOR Althea mission.

"We are against any separatist actions. We are ready to cooperate on BiH's European path as well. This is the only alternative for the security and prosperity of our countries and our citizens. The EU is the only alternative for a better life for our citizens. Albania has opened several new chapters in the negotiations. Russia's attack on Ukraine dictates that this process must proceed at an accelerated pace," he emphasized.