TIRANA, September 21 /ATA/ President of the Republic Bajram Begaj delivered a speech today at the 78th Session of the General Assembly of the United Nations Organization, which is taking place in New York.
Begaj stated that, “Trust and solidarity is more than ever a necessity for reconciliation, good-understanding and more cooperation”.
“It is the only way we can face today’s common and global challenges, which are not only affecting the present, but are also endangering the future of the coming generations,” he said.
Begaj emphasized that as part of the Western Balkans, Albania continues to make an unwavering contribution to peace and stability in this region.
“Albanians play a decisive role in Southeast Europe. We constitute the majority in two independent Republics, Albania and Kosovo, form a fundamental minority in North Macedonia and Montenegro, as well as a significant minority in the south of Serbia. Throughout our history, Albania has adhered to a policy of friendship and good neighborly relations. We are deeply concerned about the recurring crises in relations between neighbors. Both Albania and Kosovo have consistently been for peace over tensions and conflicts, and we remain committed to this path,” he added.
In this context, the President emphasized that, “Albania supports the ongoing difficult dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia facilitated by the careful mediation of the European Union and the strong support of the United States”.
At the same time, according to him, “Albania remains sensitive to the integrity and prosperity of Kosovo”.
While appealing for the recognition of Kosovo’s independence, President Begaj said that, “The rights of the Serbs in Kosovo reflect European norms and values; the same should apply to the Albanian minority in the Presheva Valley, in the south of Serbia.”
“Unfortunately, we still remain concerned about the inactivating of their residential addresses and the lack of significant investment and economic incentives in that region. Kosovo has proven that pain does not need to give rise to enmity; it should render into understanding and support,” he said.
The president emphasized Albania’s active engagement in the international arena, both regionally and globally, in search of peace and security.
Begaj emphasized that “Albania is a candidate for the Human Rights Council in the upcoming elections next month”.
“If elected, we will defend human rights in their broadest sense. This includes women’s rights, children’s rights, minority rights and the fundamental right to equal opportunity. We will work with other countries to protect and promote human rights and freedoms as a vital condition for individual and collective development and prosperity. In the regional context, we look forward to the upcoming EU-Western Balkans summit this October, in Tirana. We are committed to transforming our region into an example of trust and partnership that transcends borders and communities,” he said. /r.e/p.s./
