At the joint press conference alongside the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, Fajon said that “Albania and Slovenia have always maintained very good relations and we have an even stronger interest to continue our cooperation in different fields, such as economy, which is the most important area in the realm of cooperation.

Fajon stressed that “we had a fruitful meeting regarding the positive aspects of our cooperation”.

I am very confident that we will step up cooperation in the field of economy , she said expressing readiness to sign future memoranda and protocols. The Memorandum of Understanding on Tourism is a very important document that is expected to further foster cooperation in this important area”, Fajon underlined.

Fajon said that “we undoubtedly need to launch more air routes in the future and all these are an important and positive step.”

Fajon announced that Slovenia will have its own consulate in Durres next year.

“I think that’s how we’re going to offer everyone other opportunities. Our cooperation is focused on various areas, Slovenia is part of many development projects in Albania. We have provided technical assistance in the context of EU integration. Albania has received 1.3 million euros over the last 5 years and I am pleased that today I will have the opportunity to visit the technology hub and special laboratories that have been built ‘said Fajon.

Fajon stressed that “I am pleased to say that our officers work in many important areas related to the security of the authorities and have so far conducted many important operations on the border with Greece and we will see further developments and talks in this area as well”.

She added that “Slovenia is a supporterof the entire Western Balkan region and wants to see Albania become a member of the European Union. Slovenia is a proponent of EU accession negotiations and has always expressed its approval and appreciation for all achievements so far in implementing all criteria.

“My message today is that I hope Albania will open the first cluster as soon as possible and in September we will see a positive response regarding pre-finance of all the necessary reforms,” she added.

Fajon assured Minister Hasani that Slovenia will be a steadfast proponent of Albania’s EU integration.

“It is a strategic need to have your country and the region and Slovenia will always support Albania and other countries and I really hope that the EU will be ready to welcome you in 2030 at the latest,” Fajon said.

/sm/