In a festive atmosphere and with the presence of the highest representatives of Albanian politics, religious leaders and  diplomatic corps in Tirana, the 202nd anniversary of the neighboring country’s National Day was celebrated at the Greek Embassy.

In the welcoming speech, the Greek ambassador, Kostantina Kamitsi, stated that Athens will continue to support Albania’s journey towards European integration, describing it as a guarantee for the development of the region, but also the security of the EU.

“Since the 2003 European Union summit in Thessaloniki, we have demonstrated our support for Albania’s journey towards European integration. We continue to do the same to this day. Considering the war in Ukraine and the consequences it has brought forth, the full integration of the countries of the Western Balkans into the European Union as soon as possible is not only important for the countries of the region, but also for the security and stability of Europe”, said the Greek ambassador in Albania.

Ambassador Kamitsi said that the Greek minority in Albania and the Albanians living in the neighboring country are a guarantee of friendly relations between the two countries.

“Greece and Albania share a common political path to further strengthen bilateral relations, expand cooperation and resolve outstanding issues. The ethnic Greek minority in Albania and the large number of the Albanian community in Greece are a bridge to a fraternal relationship between the two countries,” she said.

According to her, the close relationship between Albania and Greece has been distinguished in the most difficult times.

“The indicator of close and sincere relations has been proven by both sides in the most difficult moments for both countries, as was the situation for Albania after the earthquake in 2019, the pandemic, and recently the tragedy of the train derailment in Greece”, concluded the ambassador.