August 26, 2024

Good morning everyone,

Honored Madam Minister, dear Tanja,

Honored representatives of the media,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a special pleasure for me to welcome again to Tirana, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, Ms. Tanja Fajon, a friend of Albania and Albanians, a steadfast supporter of our integration into the European Union.

I take this opportunity to thank once again my Slovenian colleague and friend who accepted the invitation to visit Albania and, above all, to address today the conference of our ambassadors to the world.

Today’s visit marks a prominent moment in our bilateral relations, which have always been based on mutual respect, understanding and close cooperation, as two friendly and allied countries.

Slovenia has been and remains a model for us, not only as the country in the region that integrated faster than others into the European Union, but also for democratic developments and the consolidation of the institutions of the rule of law.

During the meeting, we discussed a number of important issues, both bilateral and multilateral, but a special place was occupied by our journey towards a united Europe. Throughout this entire period of time, Albania has taken important steps in fulfilling the necessary reforms.

The Albanian government has worked hard to implement the reforms required for EU membership, especially in areas such as the reform of the judiciary, where the vetting of judges and prosecutors and the creation of new justice institutions are positive steps, while full and sustainable implementation is an essential factor. The fight against corruption and organized crime has marked significant progress in this direction, where there is no shortage of high-profile cases and an independent and efficient justice system.

Achievements in these areas make our progress tangible and visible. The government and institutions are committed to maintaining the momentum in our reform efforts and to ensuring that Albania continues to meet the high standards required for membership.

Building and enhancing the capacity of institutions is another key focus. We are investing in training and resources to ensure that our institutions can effectively implement and monitor EU-related policies and regulations.

Slovenia has been a strong advocate for the European perspective of the Western Balkan countries and has set an inspiring example of the successful reforms that a country can undertake to integrate into the European family. This support has been crucial for us, and we are determined to continue on this path with commitment and determination. In this context, I would like to express our gratitude to my colleague Fajon for Slovenia’s contribution, not only towards Albania, but also towards the entire Western Balkans region, and to assure her that EU membership remains our strategic priority.

We jointly concluded that bilateral relations are at a very good level. We are committed to further deepening them, exploring new opportunities for cooperation in areas such as economy, education, culture, and defense. The agreement signed a few days ago between the two Ministers of Agriculture encourages and enables increased cooperation and food security. A memorandum in the field of tourism and a protocol between the Ministries of Education for cooperation in the field of education will also be signed soon, which will contribute to the development and expansion of cooperation in the field of higher education.

Our common assessment is that there is still much to be done, especially in the field of trade exchanges, investments, but also in sectors such as health, tourism, art and culture. I would like to take this opportunity to emphasize that Slovenian companies are welcome to come and invest in Albania. Here I am referring not only to financial capital, but also to their work culture and seriousness in such commitments.

Our two countries have a rich history of cooperation and a secure future. I believe that together we will continue to cultivate these relations on the sound foundations of friendship and strategic partnership, both in bilateral and multilateral relations, within regional initiatives, but also in international organizations to which both countries adhere, for a peaceful and secure region and a strong, democratic Europe.

In conclusion, I would like to thank the Minister for her visit, her willingness to participate in the ambassadors’ conference and her continued commitment to strengthening relations between the two countries.

Thank you!