Skopje, 27 February 2026 (MIA) - Regional cooperation is a key element in bringing the European Union closer. European integration is not only Albania's goal but a joint project and a strategic direction for the countries' development. Our countries deserve stronger support on the Euro-integration path because membership is not only a natural process but a deserved one, benefiting the region and the EU, said Albanian President Bajram Begaj in his Parliament address on Friday.

"Europe is not only a destination - it is a standard. It is the rule of law, functional institutions and equality of all citizens. North Macedonia has made difficult decisions and Albania is giving the country unconditional support. Open issues with neighbors and history debates have an impact on trust but we believe that the solution lies in dialogue and reforms. Both Albanians and Macedonians know that the Balkans produces more politics than it can consume. We know that history has always been very loud on the Balkans, but the future must be clearer. Being a neighbor is not only a geographic reality. Whatever happens on the global stage, Albania and North Macedonia will remain neighbors. Geography cannot change but the quality of our relations depends on us. It is not about how close we are, but how strong we are together through cooperation, coordination and vision," said President Begaj.

The Albanian President said the time has come to move forward towards an integrated, more competitive and just region.

"Let's enhance economic cooperation, let's strengthen coordination in NATO, let's build infrastructure, education and culture. Let's protect Lake Ohrid together as a legacy for future generations. Let's create more opportunities for young people so they build their future at home. Let's invest in human relations so that we serve as a regional model of creating a partnership from disagreements. It is time to move forward towards an integrated, more competitive and just region. The heart of a multiethnic state beats in the walls of this Parliament. Albania will be here, not only as neigbor, economic partner, NATO ally, but as supporter believing in your model and our joint Euro-Atlantic future as well. Let's work so that our children grow in a region where borders are only administrative indicators on the map and where the future is one - in the European family," said Begaj.

Begaj said the NATO membership guarantees the countries' security but requires active contribution as well.

"The NATO membership is not only a formal presence but strategic engagement and mutual responsibility. The NATO membership guarantees our security but requires active contribution as well. Albania and North Macedonia take part in missions and share the burden of providing security. Protection of critical infrastructure and energy coordination are specific issues that our close cooperation must be based on," said Begaj.

According to him, the two countries share interests, challenges and the European vision, while bilateral ties have a positive impact on the region.

"For Albania, North Macedonia is the major factor in maintaining peace, security and interethnic cohesion. Albania was among the first countries to ratify North Macedonia's NATO accession treaty. When economic isolation posed a risk for the country, the Durres port was open for you. The countries' histories show that success comes by building bridges of communication, values and mutual interests. As NATO members, we travel together towards EU membership. We are countries with a stable pro-western orientation and strong cooperation with the United States. We have overcome many challenges and learned from each other's experiences," said Begaj.

He added that Corridor VIII is regional project that puts both countries in the heart of a strategic axis.

"Corridor VIII is the best example of merging security and economy. It reduces the distance, it lowers costs and increases competitiveness. It is a trade artery for businesses, a job opportunity for the citizens, a message of security for the region. It is a regional project that puts both countries in the heart of a strategic axis. Investment in Corridor VIII is an investment in security and regional cooperation," said Begaj.

He noted that the Ohrid Framework Agreement is proof that dialogue can win over crisis, adding that the treaty is a historic achievement.

"You are part of a Parliament that created history and became a model for other countries of a multiethnic, pluralistic and democratic society. Albania believes that the just solution of the Albanian issue and the use of the Albanian language are crucial for the country's stability and its prospects. The Albanian element in North Macedonia was and will continue to be a statehood, constructive and democratic factor. Albanians continue to be the main pillar of stability, both in the Government and the Euro-integration process. This reality is a success of all citizens, because a multiethnic country can function only when everyone is represented and equal before the law," underlined Begaj.

Photo: Parliament