TIRANA, December 24 /ATA-Gjergji Mima/ The bilateral relations between Albania and Ukraine have assumed a special dimension in recent years, built on friendship, solidarity and a common orientation towards European values.
Under the circumstances of a difficult geopolitical context, dictated by the war in Ukraine and the challenges to international security, the cooperation between the two countries has been promoted both bilaterally and in the framework of international organizations, while cooperation has also taken on an economic dimension, focusing on investments, trade…etc.
In an exclusive interview for the Albanian Telegraphic Agency, Ambassador of Ukraine to Albania Volodymyr Shkurov spoke about the current state of Albania-Ukraine relations, emphasizing the active political dialogue, solidarity in matters of international law and the gradual development of the legal basis that supports bilateral cooperation.
“The cooperation between Albania and Ukraine is stable, friendly and based on common European values”, he said.
Shkurov emphasized that, “Our countries maintain an active political dialogue, cooperate effectively in international organizations and show solidarity on issues of security and international law”.
In parallel, the ambassador said further on, “We are developing step by step the contractual and legal basis of our bilateral relations”.
Both countries are also paying special attention to the potential for expanding economic and political cooperation, in areas such as trade, investment, energy, agriculture, tourism and digital transformation, as well as the experience exchange in the European integration process, especially in terms of reforms and the rule of law.
“There is a considerable potential in the areas of trade, investment, the agricultural sector, energy, tourism and digital transformation”, Ambassador Shkurov told ATA.
He emphasized that, “Of particular political significance is the fostering of experience exchange on the path of European integration, especially in the field of reforms, the rule of law and adaptation to European Union standards”.
Ambassador Shkurov also dealt on the major challenges that Ukraine faces due to the war, the humanitarian situation and the massive destruction of infrastructure.
“Ukraine is enduring major challenges thanks to the social stability, the effective functioning of state institutions and broad international support”, underlined the Ukrainian diplomat.
Despite the war, Ambassador Shkurov said that, “The state ensures the functioning of the economy, the social sector and the humanitarian aid system, while continuing reforms and preparations for post-war recovery”.
At present-day, Shkurov continued, “The most difficult challenge for us remains without a doubt the front and the bombing of civilian infrastructure, housing and energy facilities by Russia. Winter is a season of high energy demand and under the conditions when about 80% of the energy infrastructure has been destroyed, extraordinary efforts are needed for survival”.
The Ukrainian ambassador also positively assessed Albania’s support for Ukraine since the first days of the war, in particular, the stance of principle in the United Nations and other international formats.
“Since the first days of the war, Albania has consistently supported Ukraine: politically, humanitarily and in the international arena”, he emphasized.
Ukrainian ambassador appreciated of particular significance, “Albania’s principled position in the United Nations and other international formats, as well as solidarity with the Ukrainian people in the fight for freedom and sovereignty”.
“Throughout the war, Albania has provided temporary protection shelter to Ukrainian citizens. We appreciate this very much and are grateful to the Government of Albania for this support”, emphasized Shkurov.
He expressed his conviction that, despite the difficulties, relations between the two countries will further deepen in the coming years, based on common strategic objectives: European integration, security and sustainable development.
“Common challenges and strategic objectives: European integration, security and sustainable development, create a strong basis for a long-term partnership, expansion of practical cooperation and mutual support”, concluded the Ambassador of Ukraine Volodymyr Shkurov in his interview with ATA. /a.g/p.s./
