This is the first visit of President Begaj to one of the countries of Western Europe, but also a confirmation of a very good political dialogue at the highest levels between the two countries.

After the ceremonies, President Begaj and President Mattarella held a one-on-one conversation and later on led the official delegations in an extended meeting.

During the extended meeting between the two delegations, President Begaj highlighted the historical and traditionally friendly relations between the two countries, the solidarity with each other in the most difficult moments, in the course of the history of the two peoples.
Begaj expressed his gratitude for the will of the Italian side to conclude the procedures of the social security agreement and expressed the confidence that this agreement will become effective very soon, to help both Albanians and Italians living and working in both countries.

The President expressed his condolences for the lost lives and regrets over the great damage caused by the floods during the last days in the region of Emilia Romagna, as well as assured President Mattarella of the solidarity of Albania and the Albanians with the Italian people in these moments.

In particular, the Head of State appreciated the role and support of Italy after the democratic changes over three decades ago.
Expressing gratitude for the multidimensional economic-social support through development and aid programs, as well as the reception of nearly half a million Albanian immigrants in Italy, President Begaj underlined that these events have made interpersonal and interstate relations between the two countries even stronger.

The Head of State also appreciated the very good economic and trade relations, and referring to Italy as the main and privileged trade partner and as one of the main donors for Albania, he underlined that the opportunities are even greater in this direction.
The growing presence of Italian entrepreneurs in Albania and the interest in investments in strategic sectors or in major regional projects such as the TAP Pipeline and Corridor 8, are the best proof in this direction, yet they should be promoted even more.
President Begaj expressed a special gratitude for the great support that Italy has given to the European integration process of Albania throughout this journey.
Focusing on the role and contribution of the people of Arbëresh and the new Albanian community in Italy, the Head of State said that thanks to the support and state solidarity, as well as thanks to Italian hospitality, they have been integrated in social, economic life, but also in Italian politics and have never felt themselves at risk of being assimilated.
Both presidents agreed to support joint state initiatives in the preservation and promotion of these common values, which are the foundation of the long-lasting friendship between the two peoples.
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