TIRANA, Oct 28 /ATA/ – “We want you to be free and equal. It is true that the path we offer is hard, full of standards and expectations, but leads to a thriving Western Balkans, whose people are proud of what they stand for,” the US Charge D’ Affairs in Tirana, Leyla Moses Ones, said in her remarks to conference “US Policy in the Western Balkans.”
Speaking about the European Council meeting and postponement of the opening of accession talks, Moses Ones, said that the October 18 decision of EC on enlargement has been sparked a lot of discussion. Albania is a candidate country and this has not changed. Albania will join the EU ranks increasing twice as much as the efforts for fight against corruption and crime. Not only is Albania working hard for justice reform, it has become a national project. The leaders of Albania have chosen to reach compromise for the sake of common good.
Regarding the commitment of Albania to NATO, Moses-Ones said that Albania has delivered on its commitment, contributes more troops per capita than almost all European countries. Albanians have sacrificed their lives for the collective defense.
Moses –Ones spoke about the other stakeholders interested to influence on the Western Balkans.
“There are other countries that look for easier ways to go ahead. Review the offers before accepting them. To Russia, China and Iran, Western Balkans, is a means to an end. They intend to undermine the western model of self-governance which esteem freedom and election.
“Albania has made it clear to China that certain things are not up for sale, has refused the Russian machinery and proved that it will not put up with Iranian terrorists on its land. Albania has chosen to take principled stands,” Moses-Ones said.
US Charge d’Affaires also spoke of Albania’s 2020 OSCE presidency.
“Next year Albania will hold the presidency of OSCE, an organization that also takes principled positions. We will continue our loyal support for Albania which draws on inspirational values. The US welcomes the priorities set by Albania, including the fight against terrorism and violent extremism. We look forward to working with Albania during the OSCE Presidency in 2020 ″, she said
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