Acting Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Gent Cakaj, paid an official visit to Budapest upon invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Péter Szijjártó. Discussions focused on the process of European integration, as well as bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Acting Minister Cakaj, expressing his appreciation for Hungary's support for Albania in the European integration process, informed Minister Szijjártó with the progress made towards meeting the five key priorities. On his part, the Foreign Minister of Hungary said that the European Union should start negotiations with Albania in June and that for Hungary the postponement of the decision would be unacceptable. Emphasizing the importance of the credibility of the enlargement process, Péter Szijjártó added that the security and stability of the Western Balkans are important and have a direct impact on the security of Central Europe. The two ministers shared the assessment that bilateral relations are developing very well, both politically and economically. It was emphasized that this visit has opened up new opportunities for cooperation between the two countries in tourism, infrastructure, water and waste treatment as well as in the banking system where OTP Bank will serve as a mechanism for attracting Hungarian investments in Albania. Hungary is also supporting Albania with expertise related to the European integration process. Acting Minister Cakaj and Hungarian Minister Szijjártó signed the Agreement on Cooperation for mutual assistance in the field of improving waste management, water public utility service, climate policy, renewable energy management and energy efficiency, and the agreement on the exercise of a gainful occupation by the family members of a diplomatic mission or consular post. During the meeting they also exchanged views on the OSCE's Presidency for 2020, and the Hungarian side reconfirmed its support for Albania's candidacy for a provisional seat at the UN Security Council for the period 2022-2023.
10 May 2019