At the reception with the diplomatic corps accredited in Tirana at the beginning of the year, the Head of State focused on the challenges and threats that the world and the region are facing today.

Begaj emphasized that Albania will continue to contribute to peace in the region and beyond, because peace is the cornerstone of well-being, security, sustainable development and mutual respect.

Speaking about the situation in Kosovo, Begaj said that the support of the EU and the international community for conducting in-depth investigations to identify and punish the instigators and perpetrators of the event in Banjska is indispensable.
According to him, “the resolution of the Kosovo-Serbia disputes is not only a political issue, but also a security issue for the region and Europe.”

Having welcomed the EU’s decision to liberalize visas for citizens of Kosovo, Begaj reiterated the request that the countries that have not yet recognized Kosovo should recognize it as an irreversible reality.

Begaj also guaranteed that Albania’s engagement in the international arena will continue in parallel with all the reforms started in the country, in particular with the justice reform, the fight against corruption, the increase in transparency and accountability from public institutions, as well as the efforts for social justice.

“Last year, Albania saw positive and successful developments in several areas, among which we can single out tourism, sports and culture. The achievements of the past year will be amplified by new events during 2024 such as the 10th anniversary of the Berlin Process, which I hope will find a more cooperative region and closer to the EU,” he said.
In this regard, the Head of State expressed his conviction that the European Union will continue to pay proper and special attention to the Western Balkans.

“It is important that the region is supported and mechanisms are created that enable not only political alignment, but also economic progress and facilities for the daily life of citizens. For Albanians in the region, EU membership is a matter of national interest. The Albanian factor has contributed and will continue to contribute to the peace and security of the region”, emphasized President Begaj./m.m/sm/