Skopje, 16 February 2024 (MIA) – Caretaker Prime Minister Talat Xhaferi met with Albanian PM Edi Rama Friday afternoon on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

During the meeting they underscored the excellent bilateral relations and strong friendship between North Macedonia and Albania, serving as an example of good neighborliness in the region and contributing to the stability of the Western Balkans and Europe, the government said in a press release.

In terms of bilateral relations, it has been noted that cooperation is comprehensive, there is an upward trend in trade exchange, political dialogue is consistent at all levels, and a shared objective is the European integration of both countries and the wider region.

“During the meeting, it was emphasized that both countries, through their European policies, are vital for Europe and deserve to become EU members by 2030. It was further highlighted that the negotiation process will facilitate effective reform efforts and advancements in living standards aligned with European standards, meeting the expectations of the citizens. In that regard, it was assessed that the most significant political affirmation from the EU for effective European integration of the Western Balkans is the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, adopted by the European Commission. It was emphasized the determination to enhance the capacities of the economies, aiming for accelerated regional economic growth and development in accordance with European standards,” the press release reads.

Xhaferi confirmed his attendance at the high-level conference on EU Growth Plan which is to take place by end of February in Tirana, noting that it is yet another opportunity to reaffirm the region's commitment to further strengthening regional connectivity and the common regional market as a prerequisite for preparing to enter the European single market.

He also confirmed his presence at Ukraine - South-East Europe Summit in Tirana as an opportunity to reaffirm unity with the international democratic community in defense of peace.

At the meeting, discussions also were focused on expectations for the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in the country, emphasizing the role of pro-European political parties that have positioned the country on the democratic Euro-Atlantic path. Emphasized is the realization of European perspectives, deemed significant for everyone in the Republic of North Macedonia, as well as for the region. The realization of European perspectives was emphasized as crucial for all in the Republic of North Macedonia, as well as for the region, reads the press release.

Photo and video: Government of the Republic of North Macedonia