TIRANA, February 8 /ATA/- The British Ambassador to Albania Alastair King-Smith stated today that the candidates running in the upcoming local elections of May 14 must be away from corruption and crime.
Speaking to reporters from Elbasan, Ambassador King-Smith stated that there must be no misuse of state resources and the elections should be held in a free and fair manner.
“We will continue to have talks about accountability and ending impunity. Tomorrow, the Special Envoy of the British Prime Minister for the Western Balkans, Lord Stuart Peach will visit Tirana”, said King-Smith.
Speaking about emigration, the British ambassador said that he was sad to see many young Albanians fleeing Albania illegally.
“Our message to young people is not to go in this way. It is very sad to see the traffickers telling how easy the travel and life is there, but the truth is not as described by the traffickers. Britain is implementing the agreement reached on December 13 with the Albanian government and is focusing on returning people who do not have the right to stay,” he added.
According to King-Smith, “The important message for all Albanians, especially for Albanian citizens living in the United Kingdom is that the British government recognizes and greatly appreciates the contribution of the Albanian community in Britain”.
“Many of them make a valuable contribution to British society,” he said. /p.s./
