TIRANA, January 19/ATA/ President of the Republic Bajram Begaj, who is on an official visit to Moldova, met President of Moldova Maia Sandu.
During their one-to-one meeting and then in the presence of the respective delegations, the interlocutors focused on promotion of bilateral relations, regional security, the complex geopolitical situation and European unity in the face of these challenges.
“Albania supports the Moldovan people in building a democratic, prosperous and European future, in a very challenging geopolitical and security context marked by the unprovoked and unjustified Russian aggression against Ukraine and the security threats stemming from it”, said President Begaj.
The heads of the two states reaffirmed their joint commitment to membership in the European Union.
Also at the press conference, President Begaj and President Sandu confirmed their commitment to cooperation in fulfilling the European agenda as soon as possible, with the aim of membership in the European Union through progress based on merit and reforms.
President Begaj emphasized that, “Albania believes that the enlargement of the European Union remains one of the most effective instruments for guaranteeing security, stability, prosperity and lasting peace in Europe. Albania expresses its full support for Moldova’s membership in the European Union”.
Meanwhile, President Begaj expressed support for President Sandu for the pro-European policies in leading the state.
President Begaj praised Moldova’s stance in the face of malicious influences, pressures and disinformation campaigns, as well as its unwavering commitment to building a democratic state, an integral part of the European family.
In this spirit, he emphasized that Albania aims to promote cooperation by utilizing the mechanisms created within the framework of the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding on European Integration.
“Albania stands by Moldova as a friend, as a partner and as a common aspirant for membership in the European Union. Together, we contribute to a stronger, safer and united Europe, built on the values of democracy, freedom and shared responsibility for our future”, said President Begaj.
The Head of State also emphasized the commitment to deepening relations in areas where there is potential for deeper cooperation in other areas of mutual interest.
The two countries have an agreement on free trade, as well as one on investment protection and avoidance of double taxation. According to President Begaj, this is a good basis for promoting economic cooperation.
President Begaj paid special attention to Kosovo during this visit. The President appreciated the support provided by Moldova in relation to Kosovo’s application to become a member of the Council of Europe and the contribution of troops to the KFOR mission.
“In this spirit of cooperation, Albania hopes that Moldova, when it deems it appropriate, will also reconsider the issue of recognizing Kosovo. We are aware of the internal problems that exist, related to Transnistria, but in any case, it is an issue that we believe would bring peace, stability, regional cooperation and trust in democracy”, said President Begaj.
Also on the President’s agenda today were meetings with a delegation from the Moldovan Parliament, led by Speaker Igor Grosu, with whom they discussed promoting cooperation between the institutions of the two states, as well as with representatives of the Albanian diaspora in Moldova. /gj.m/j.p/p.s./
