President Bajram Begaj of Albania urged officials in Kosovo to heed the recommendations provided by the United States for the dialogue process with Serbia. In an interview with Voice of America, he emphasized the importance of seeking support from friends and allies, with Albania firmly supporting the dialogue facilitated by the European Union and backed by the United States.
In his remarks on the recognition of Kosovo, President Begaj underscored the pressing need for support, both morally and through new recognitions. He highlighted that Kosovo’s stability and development are pivotal for regional peace and security. Begaj emphasized Albania’s unwavering support for the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, facilitated by the EU and strongly supported by the United States, and stressed that the entire region should strive for Euro-Atlantic integration.
Regarding the recent arrest of the elected mayor of Himara, Fredi Beleri, which has strained relations between Albania and Greece, President Begaj insisted that the country must await the decision of the justice system and expresses full confidence in its independence.
President Begaj acknowledged that Albania maintains a strategic partnership with Greece, one founded on neighborly values and mutual respect. He made it clear that the issue of Fredi Beleri’s arrest should be left to the justice system for resolution.
In terms of the maritime border agreement with Greece, President Begaj mentioned that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sought authorization for negotiation, and experts from the Presidency and the ministry are diligently working to ensure that any agreement aligns seamlessly with the Constitutional Court’s decision.
Additionally, President Begaj addressed the passage of controversial laws in the Albanian parliament, including those related to medical cannabis, requirements for medical students to stay in Albania, and the establishment of the Academy of Sciences. Begaj explained that his role as president is to ensure that laws passed by the Parliament align with the Constitution and that he does not make decisions based on personal opinions or political considerations.
Regarding the voting rights of Albanian emigrants in upcoming elections, President Begaj underscored that diaspora communities should have the right to vote in Albania. The president noted that this matter has been communicated to the Albanian Parliament and he anticipates that the electoral reform commission, soon to be established, will implement the Constitutional Court’s decision to grant diaspora the right to vote, in accordance with the Constitution, by year-end.
You can watch the full interview here.
