Italy and Albania are in alignment on all fronts, asserted Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama this Wednesday during a shared press conference with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, following the second political-level meeting of the Italy-Albania Joint Economic Committee.
“We are delighted that Italy serves as our most trusted advocate, even on the European stage, being the strongest voice in Brussels supporting Albania and the Western Balkans on their European journey,” stated Rama.
“We are content that this government has made a dedicated commitment to turn many promises into tangible economic realities, shared policies, security measures, and more,” Rama continued.
“It’s not always the case that you travel to another country with such a large delegation and don’t require translation headsets. Even the interpreters would appreciate this, as they will be paid without having to translate anything. I’m confident that the Farnesina [Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy] will pay in the same manner…,” Rama playfully quipped in Italian.
The Albanian premier stressed that Italian isn’t just the second language for Albanians but also a “political language at bilateral and international levels”.
Meanwhile, Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani also stressed that Albania is a strategic partner for Italy.
“Italy considers the Western Balkans a top priority in our foreign policy, and we are fully supportive of these countries’ EU accession, starting with Albania. We hope this can happen before 2030,” he emphasized during the press conference.
“In terms of migration, especially along the Balkan route, we already have cooperation with Albania. We need to combat human traffickers, who are no different from drug and arms traffickers. We are working closely with our financial police and Albanian law enforcement, but we must further enhance this collaboration,” Tajani stated, adding “One, two, or three countries alone won’t suffice; strong action is needed in Europe and at the UN”.
Touching on the latest developments in Kosovo as well, Tajani underscored Italy’s commitment to ensuring peace in the region.
“Italy condemns the violence in Kosovo and is open to considering the possibility of strengthening KFOR to prevent accidents and casualties. I also discussed this with Minister Crosetto,” he emphasized, adding “I believe that Italy, with its capacity to engage with all parties, will continue to play a role in bringing peace to this highly complex region. Solutions are never found through warfare but through diplomacy”.
