NEWS

Slovenia supports the accession process of the Republic of Albania to the EU and would like to improve economic cooperation

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Slovenia, Janez Janša, had a meeting today with the Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania, Dr Sali Berisha, who is paying the first official visit to Slovenia. The two statesmen agreed that in twenty years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, good friendly relations have developed in the political, cultural and economic areas.

 

At the joint press conference, Prime Minister Janša stressed that recently, the conditions for strong relations between the two countries have been particularly boosted owing to the liberalisation of visa regime for Albania. He congratulated the Albanian Prime Minister on the adoption of this measure that is important for all citizens and commended it as the right step towards the membership in the European Union. The two Prime Ministers agreed that Albania's accession to the European Union is in the mutual interest of both countries. Prime Minister Janša also added that Albania's great advantage lies in the fact that the majority of its citizens support the accession to the European Union. The Albanian Prime Minister thanked Slovenia for the support and assistance offered to Albania in joining the European integration process, adding that the accession to the European Union is Albania's major project that will keep engaging all their efforts.

 

The two Prime Ministers also discussed the current situation in the Western Balkans. Prime Minister Janša pointed out that the two countries share a common opinion on the current situation in this region and that the dialogue and desire for joining the European integration is the only path that can contribute to the region's development. He also expressed his appreciation of the process and adoption of reforms in Albania that call for a broad social consensus, adding that the issue of immunity also requires a solution in line with the European standards. Prime Minister Janša highlighted that Albania is a constructive partner in ensuring the stability in the Western Balkans and added that its endeavours during its Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe based on cultural diversity integration are indeed very positive.  

 

Mr Janša and Mr Berisha also agreed that there is still a great deal of untapped potential in the area of economic cooperation. The two Prime Ministers see opportunities particularly in the areas of energy and tourism where the current trade in goods and services is relatively limited. Prime Minister Janša highlighted that the steps taken by Albania towards the accession to the European Union will also help boost mutual cooperation. The Albanian Prime Minister said that his country will strive to create the best possible conditions for the entry of Slovenian companies and investments into the Albanian market. 

 

Mr Janša also congratulated Mr Berisha on this year's celebration of the venerable 100th anniversary of independence of the Republic of Albania. In his turn, Prime Minister Berisha congratulated his Slovenian counterpart for the recent 20th anniversary of Slovenia's independence and commended its achievements in joining all important European integrations.