Skopje, 17 January 2024 (MIA) - Albania and North Macedonia have accomplished impressive results in the Euro-integration process, the countries successfully completed the screening and we are expecting the next steps. We have faced many challenges on this path and supported each other along the way. Our cooperation should further enhance in order to take the region where we want it to be, said Albania's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani, who is paying an official visit to North Macedonia on Wednesday.

"Today more than ever before, our countries and societies share common values and vision for the future. Albania will continue to follow activities in North Macedonia, especially during this year of presidential and parliamentary elections. We expect this process to be successful, and most importantly, not bring any change in your commitment to the European future," FM Hasani told a joint press conference with host Bujar Osmani.

In this context, he welcomed the institutional role of the Albanian community for the country's stability, especially in maintaining the Euro-Atlantic perspective, considering that the journey was full of challenges and difficulties.

Hasani said Albania would continue to support the constructive efforts of ethnic Albanians in North Macedonia in the political processes, and the commitment for consolidation of the rule of law, democracy, social cohesion and equality among all citizens.

"I believe the fact that North Macedonia will have an ethnic Albanian as PM for the first time on record represents part of the progress your country and society has made, which I admire and respect. We support the building of a functional multiethnic society based on observance of the Ohrid Framework Agreement and all other vital treaties," said Hasani.

He also highlighted the significance of Corridor VIII, which has become part of the pan-European corridors and is set to transform the strategic position, economies and development perspectives of both countries.

"Therefore, we have to invest in finding ways how to cooperate in reaping the benefits of this corridor and the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans for North Macedonia, Albania and the region as a whole," underlined Hasani.

FM Osmani said they agreed with counterpart Hasani that both countries should continue on their European path and do more in order to see the region in the EU.

"North Macedonia and Albania are much more than good neighbors, they are friendly countries that provide exceptional mutual support, and partners on the European path. Both countries successfully completed the screening process after a year of active talks and are ready to open the first clusters and chapters, thus speeding up the European integration process," said Osmani.

According to him, Euro-integration is not the only, but is the best way for comprehensive reform of the entire system when it comes to the rule of law and fight against organized crime and corruption, through enhanced investment cycles, higher wages, up to better quality of life, education, healthcare and welfare.

"It is a security issue as well. Faced by the contemporary challenges of hybrid threats, outside influence but also an active war on European soil, integration of the Western Balkans in Europe represents a political-security issue. Europe, strongly supported by the United States, should strengthen its presence in the region through its policies, but also its defense role, thus sending a message of deterrence as one of the key defense policies," noted Osmani.

On economic cooperation, the FM said it lagged behind political relations, considering that bilateral trade exchange amounts to about EUR 200 million.