In the framework of the 72nd session of the UN General Assembly, Minister Bushati held a meeting with UNDP new Administrator, Achim Steiner.

At the meeting was highlighted the importance of continuing close and successful cooperation between Albania and the UN, particularly as regards a closer coordination for the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals and commitments under the Climate Agreement.

Minister Bushati underscored the need for UN activity in Albania to be maximally linked to the new priorities of the government program, to focus on aspects of vocational training and youth employment as well as be linked with the overall progress of the European integration process. Minister Bushati invited the UN Administrator for a visit to Albania.

While in New York, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ditmir Bushati also held meetings with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Kingdom of Belgium, Didier Reynders and his Norwegian counterpart, Børge Brende.

At the meeting with his counterpart Reynders, ministers commended the overall cooperation between the two countries, and expressed their commitment to strengthen economic cooperation, as one of the untapped potentials. Minister Bushati spoke highly of the contribution of Belgian companies in the TAP project as model to boost Belgian investments in Albania.

Ministers praised the steps made to expand bilateral legal framework with the entry into force of the Agreement on International Transport, Agreement on Social Protection as well as the Apostle Seal Agreement as important moments for facilitating multidimensional bilateral cooperation.

Minister Bushati expressed gratitude for Belgian support in the framework of preparation for opening accession negotiations with the European Union. 

Ministers shared views on issues of interest during the session of the General Assembly and other bodies of the UN system.

At the meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Norway, Børge Brende, both ministers praised bilateral co-operation, the successful cooperation in the energy sector and agreed to intensify cooperation in other areas of interest.

Minister Bushati praised Norway's Cooperation and Development Assistance for Albania. Furthermore, Ministers shared views on economic diplomacy, on the most practical and successful forms and ways to engage the diplomatic service system in the economy.

While analysing the situation and developments in the region, Minister Bushati praised Norway's contribution to the preservation and strengthening of peace and security in the Western Balkans. While referring to security challenges in the European area, ministers shared view on the importance of strengthening the Atlantic bond as the backbone for peace-keeping, stability and security in Europe and beyond.