Skopje, 27 March 2023 (MIA) - Parliament Speaker Talat Xhaferi met Monday with Albanian Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Olta Xhaçka, saying North Macedonia and Albania build excellent bilateral relations, including a productive political dialogue and cooperation in many fields of mutual interest.

Speaker Xhaferi said both countries share common foreign policy goals and interests regarding the European Union membership, cooperation within NATO and enhancement of regional cooperation, the Parliament said in a press release.

Xhaferi referred to the country's chairmanship over OSCE and the Adriatic Charter-A5, as well as the coming presidency with the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP).

The Speaker highlighted the significance of infrastructure projects in the two countries, for the purpose of increased exchange of people, commodities and services, adding that the road, energy and railway networking remains a priority.

Minister Xhaçka said the constructive communication between the two countries is a model for successful cooperation among neighbors in the region, whereas the intensity of visits at all levels is one of the best indicators of the quality of bilateral ties. Both countries attach significant importance to the Euro-Atlantic perspective of the area and are successfully implementing the EU screening process.

Xhaçka added that the EU enlargement process is linked not only to the stability and security of the Balkans but also security of the EU and the European continent.

On the constitutional changes, the Albanian FM said it is a political process that requires great will and noted that all political factors should consider the interest of the country and its citizens.

Interlocutors stressed the countries' commitment for comprehensive development of the Western Balkans and welcomed the outcome of the recent Berlin Process summit and the progress made in the free movement of citizens, recognition of IDs, university certificates and professional qualifications. Agreements signed within the Open Balkan initiative are also of enormous significance and a joint priority.

In addition, Xhaferi and Xhaçka exchanged opinions on regional developments in the context of the Russian aggression in Ukraine, as well as the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue.

Considering that North Macedonia and Albania will mark the 30th anniversary of bilateral ties in 2023, interlocutors expressed assurance that long-standing partnership, development of relations and cooperation in numerous spheres of mutual interest will continue to enhance, reads the press release. 

Photo: Parliament