Skopje, 8 September 2025 (MIA) - Minister of European Affairs Orhan Murtezani took part Monday in the #Diplo2025 ambassadorial conference held in Tirana, Albania, addressing a panel on the topic “Albanians in the region – shared identity, shared European goal”.

According to the Ministry of European Affairs, in his address Minister Murtezani stressed that the Western Balkan countries’ path to the European Union represents choosing values and a shared future, instead of just being a technical process. He said North Macedonia remains firmly committed to the European agenda by implementing meaningful reforms backed with the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance and the Reform and Growth Facility as part of the Western Balkans Growth Plan. 

The Minister noted the importance of the 2001 Ohrid Framework Agreement, which, he said, transformed North Macedonia into a functional, multiethnic democracy and enabled an active political and institutional role of the Albanians in the country. This model, he underlined, is proof that diversity is a strength that boosts stability and a value that aligns with European standards.

Murtezani touched upon the need for further regional connectivity through joint infrastructural and cultural projects. He pointed to Corridor VIII as a symbol of integration and European connectivity that also facilitates trade and strengthens cooperation between countries in the region. In that context, he noted the importance of cultural and educational exchange, which contributes to the creation of a shared European identity. 

In his address, Minister Murtezani highlighted that Albanian communities across the region play the role of natural bridges for dialogue and understanding, contributing to good neighborly relations – one of the key criteria for EU membership. He noted that Albanians in the region have always been active in building institutions, strengthening social cohesion and promoting the rule of law, as well as in fighting corruption.

Concluding his address, Minister Murtezani referred to the words of writer Ismail Kadare: “Europe is our home and we have no other,” stressing that this message affirms the shared commitment to a European future of the entire region. 

Photo: Ministry of European Affairs