Struga, 8 July 2025 (MIA) - The Republic of Albania is our neighbor, regional partner in NATO and ally, while the relations and cooperation between the two countries is founded on mutual trust, respect and commitment to the realization of the strategic goals of both countries within the Euro-integration process, Minister of Foreign Affairs Timcho Mucunski said Tuesday at the opening of Albania’s Consulate General in Struga attended by Albania’s Foreign Minister Igli Hasani. 

The opening of the Consulate, according to Mucunski, won’t only represent institutional presence, but will also be “a bridge of communication between the two friendly and neighboring countries and a symbol of closeness, mutual understanding and cooperation”.

“The Consulate General will enable the citizens easier access to consular services and closer ties with the institutions in both countries, which is especially important for people who cross the border daily due to family ties, businesses, transiting or tourism. This, on the other hand, will contribute to strengthened economic and tourism development, as well as greater cultural exchange. The opening of this Consulate is another valuable tool in the rich mosaic of excellent relations that we have nurtured over a long period of time,” Mucunski stressed. 

Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, said the opening of the Consulate is not only a diplomatic move, but also a concrete sign of their commitment to being closer to their citizens, strengthening the ties between both countries and enhancing cooperation in the region which requires stability, development and economic future.

“At a time when the movement of our citizens has increased significantly due to tourism, and seasonal and economic engagements, the need for consular services becomes increasingly more urgent. This Consulate will not only serve as an office for documents, but it will be a functional bridge between the country of Albania and its citizens, a premise that brings services closer and reaffirms the institutional care,” Hasani said.

According to Hasani, the Consulate will be expanded to cover Ohrid, Bitola, Kichevo, Debar, Resen and other regions, to facilitate access to services.

Earlier on Tuesday, the two foreign ministers held a tête-à-tête meeting in Ohrid, which, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, focused on promoting good neighborly relations and enhancing cooperation between the two countries in all areas of mutual interest.

Photo: MIA