TIRANA, June 2 /ATA/- “Unresolved bilateral issues can be dealt with and ultimately resolved,” Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani asserted in an exclusive interview with TA NEA, several hours ahead of his visit to Athens for talks with Greek counterpart Giorgos Gerapetritis.
When asked whether the issue of delimiting maritime zones (defining the borders between two territories) is high on the agenda for this meeting, and if the next step would be, as agreed in 2020, to take the dispute to The Hague, Hasani assured that the Albanian government, in its fourth term, remains open and fully committed to promoting dialogue on all outstanding bilateral issues, without ruling out any options.
He emphasized that they engage in these talks with a spirit of mutual respect, with the objective of reaching fair and sustainable solutions that reflect their common interest in maintaining good neighborly relations and ensuring regional stability. He affirmed that through continuous dialogue and constructive cooperation, it is possible to address all pertinent issues in alignment with international law, drawing upon the profound historical connections and geographical proximity that have united the two peoples for generations.
Hasani emphasized that Albanian-Greek relations should continue to advance in a constructive and forward-looking manner, grounded in a strategic partnership of close collaboration within NATO and aligned European aspirations.
“Greece remains a key partner for Albania. Our two peoples have lived side by side for centuries, sharing borders, experiences, and countless social and cultural exchanges. This closeness has fostered a profound human connection that transcends politics and underscores the importance of resolving all outstanding issues through dialogue,” Minister Hasani further stated.
According to the Albanian top diplomat, this visit to Athens presents an opportunity to build upon these foundations and reaffirm the mutual commitment to an open, constructive, and ongoing dialogue.
He also emphasized that Tirana highly values Greece’s continued support for Albania’s European integration, cooperation in energy, trade, regional initiatives, and multilateral platforms, noting that there is significant potential to further deepen this collaboration.
Regarding Albania’s accession to the EU by 2030, Minister Hasani stated that the country is firmly on the right path toward membership, following comprehensive reforms. He noted that Albania is now in a decisive phase of the accession process, with four negotiating clusters already making progress in key areas such as the rule of law, democratic governance, and public administration—laying a solid foundation for the country’s future in the European Union.
“We remain committed to accelerating reforms, particularly in judicial integrity, the six-year economic agenda, and the strengthening of institutions. Our goal is to begin closing negotiation chapters as soon as possible, aiming for full completion by 2027, and preparing Albania for EU membership by 2030,” he stated.
When asked about the high percentage of votes Prime Minister Rama received from Albanian emigrants in Greece during the May 11 elections, Hasani stated that this reflects their continued trust in the Prime Minister’s leadership, the government’s commitment to essential reforms, and the shared vision for Albania’s European future.
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