At a joint press conference with the Minister of Foreign Affairs in Tirana, Olta Xhaçka, Linde stressed that “Sweden will remain a committed partner in your efforts for European reforms, including the bilateral cooperation.”

“In 2021, Sweden plans to renew its commitment to support the Western Balkans by adopting a new Swedish development cooperation strategy for the Western Balkans. The focus will be on democracy, human rights, the rule of law, gender equality, climate and environment, including economic development as well as peaceful and inclusive societies.”

Linde underlined that “the EU decision to start accession negotiations for Albania is a milestone in our relations. It is a recognition and acceptance of the determination and work done by your government and the Albanian people. We welcome the progress you have made and encourage you to continue on this path.”

“Our excellent relations and bilateral cooperation have grown even more in the framework of the OSCE troika. Close contacts between our governments are highly appreciated. “I look forward to further strengthening the cooperation between the OSCE and Albania, mentioning the bilateral relations between our countries in the coming years,” said Linde.

As to her visit in Tirana, Linde said that it reflects the importance that we attach to cooperation OSCE- Albania as a participating country with a valuable contribution.”

“I would like to congratulate Albania for the successful chairmanship in 2020 and thank you for the excellent cooperation in the OSCE troika. “We are building on the important efforts and achievements of the Albanian chairmanship to follow through with our work on issues such as security, counter-terrorism and organized crime,” said Linde.

“I would like to express my appreciation to the Albanian government for its excellent cooperation with the OSCE Presence here. I encourage Albania as a host country to continue and fully draw on its assistance and expertise to advance the country’s strategic objectives. Through its presence, the OSCE will continue to provide strong support to the country’s reform processes. “I renew the OSCE offer to provide assistance and expertise in this and other relevant areas,” Linde said.

“I was glad to attend the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the OSCE and Albania just a little while ago. The memorandum aims to strengthen our joint efforts against the proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons. “This is a crucial issue for security and development in the region and beyond.”

“Likewise,” she added, “this is a priority for the Swedish government. In October last year, the Swedish Minister of Internal Affairs and I had a fruitful discussion here in Tirana on opportunities of strengthening our cooperation in the fight against international organized crime, including the proliferation and misuse of small arms and light weapons. “. /j.p/sm/