Skopje, 13 June 2024 (MIA) - Ahead of the July 1 takeover of the South East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Chairmanship, Albanian President Bajram Begaj said Thursday they would focus on several priorities - EU accession, economic stability, green and digital agenda, tourism, culture and regional networking.

President Begaj saluted North Macedonia, who is handing over the SEECP Chairmanship to Albania, for its successful and dynamic presidency.

"I am convinced that the work and results achieved during your chairmanship have contributed to a stronger and more active organization, and building a better and more democratic future. Albania continues to actively promote regional cooperation that improves people's lives, improves relations and helps the Euro-integration processes," Begaj told a joint press conference with counterparts Gordana Siljanovska Davkova and Jakov Milatović, who countries held the past two presidencies.

Montenegro President Milatović wished Begaj success during the year-long SEECP mandate, while congratulating Siljanovska Davkova on her election to the post.

He said Montenegro and North Macedonia share a common past, jointly respond to present challenges, while voicing assurance "that we have a common European future".

He added that goodneighborly policy is one of the most important pillars of Montenegro's foreign policy, based on excellent bilateral relations with all countries in the region of Southeast Europe.

Milatović noted that commitment to reforms and regional cooperation is not significant only for EU membership but also in ensuring long-term prosperity and stability of the region.

"It is important that we stay on the course of democratic development and rule of law, because this is the only way for our societies to truly make progress and seize the opportunity arising from the fresh enthusiasm and new momentum in Brussels when it comes to the EU enlargement. This platform continues to be an important initiative for realization of our common goals, a platform through which we can help each other by exchanging experiences and sharing ideas," underlined President Milatović.

Photo: MIA