Presidenti i Republikës së Shqipërisë

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Speeches

SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT OF ALBANIA, H.E. Mr. BAJRAM BEGAJ, ADDRESSED TO THE DIPLOMATIC CORPS

It is a pleasure to meet again at the outset of this year. Each of our gatherings serves to strengthen the relationships between our countries and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening these ties.

I have had the privilege of being to some of your countries and the honour of welcoming heads of state in Tirana, with whom I have discussed current and future common challenges.

Last year, Albania further solidified its role as a reliable partner in foreign policy, taking on a proactive role on the regional scene. At the same time, its European affiliation is intrinsically linked with strategic partnerships.

Dear friends,

We began our transition in 1990 with the slogan “We want Albania to be like every other part of Europe”, and over the past year, we took significant steps towards European integration.

The opening of negotiations signifies not only the recognition of the reforms that Albania has undertakenbut also our determination and commitment to advancing in this transformative journey towards our European affiliation.

Our journey towards a united Europe is not only a political ambition but is deeply rooted in values we hold dear, such as democracy, human rights, and social cohesion.

The European Union represents a significant project of peace, prosperity, and development, and we arecommitted to implementing profound reforms, which remain at the forefront of our priorities for the future of the country.

European integration is Albania’s only alternative; it is the natural choice of an ancient people with European values, culture, tradition and a Euro-Atlantic belonging.

Despite being a small country, Albania stands out for itshighest support for the United States of America, the European Union, and NATO.

This fact is not only an indicator of historical culture but also signifies our trust, choice, and awareness of our fundamental state and national interests.

Albanians are convinced that democracy, integration, and the rule of law are not inherently granted. Instead, theyare essential processes that demand collectiveparticipation, cooperation, and clear strategies to yieldtangible results.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The region remains a priority and a strategic necessity for our foreign policy. Albania is an important actor and, at the same time, a direct beneficiary of a constructive and moderate regional policy aimed at strengthening peace, security, stability, sustainable development, and regional cooperation.

Albania, along with the broader Albanian community, will continue to defend their European affiliation and advance the Euro-Atlantic path.

Albania continues its unconditional support for the Republic of Kosovo, particularly in securing new recognitions, its membership in international organisations, and its affirmation in the region and beyond.

Today, the Albanians of Kosovo are masters of their own fate and territories, which provides hope for a better life and future.

Albanians in Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and everywhere throughout the Diaspora remain a focal point of our attention as we work to preserve andstrengthen the national identity and guarantee the rights of Albanians.

The Berlin Process Summit and the Summit on the Growth and Convergence Plan in Tirana have strengthened our commitment to a more integrated region that aligns closer with Europe.

Your Excellencies,

Albania has played an active and consistent role in international organizations, guided by a belief and commitment to shared democratic values.

Within the UN Security Council, we have strongly condemned Russian aggression against Ukraine.

As a member of the UN Human Rights Council, Albania has been engaged and determined to protect human rights on a global scale.

Our activism has also been evident through our contributions as a member of NATO. Last year, I was honoured to visit our military troops stationed in Latvia and Bulgaria, where they serve as part of NATO missions.

Although a small country, Albania has quickly managed to become a reliable and dedicated partner in contributing to the NATO Alliance.

This is exemplified by the opening of the Tactical Air Base in Kuçovë, Corridor VIII, and making the port of Porto Romano available to the Alliance.

Strengthening the Euro-Atlantic Alliance should be a priority.

A strong and united NATO will contribute to addressingany challenges that may arise.

Distinguished guests,

Our foreign policy goals are closely aligned withachieving national objectives and addressing the challenges ahead of us.

Many of your countries have closely supported us in various fields, especially in justice reform.

Ensuring the quality of the justice system at every leveland fighting corruption and organized crime remain key priorities.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to our strategic ally, the United States of America, for its invaluable contribution to consolidating justice as a cornerstone of our democratic state.

The quality of political dialogue in our country remains a challenge.

Albania is distinguished for its intercultural and interfaith dialogue.

Drawing from this long-standing tradition of the Albanians, I hope that political parties will return to the normality of political life in the country through constructive dialogue.

Several significant achievements have been made in this regard, and one of them is the consensus on finalizing the legal framework for the Diaspora vote.

This was a long-standing obligation that politics owed to Albanians abroad.

Thanks to this consensus, in the parliamentary elections of May 2025, the Albanian Diaspora will have the opportunity to contribute with their vote to the selection of the best alternative for the country.

Elections serve as an opportunity to demonstrate our maturity. Beyond the result, what remains important for us is the respect and implementation of standards that guarantee free, fair, and democratic elections.

Dear friends,

Last year, Albania emerged as a preferred tourist destination for many citizens of your countries.

This demonstrates that hospitality, development, and security yield positive outcomes when we all contribute.

Tourism remains one of our long-term development priorities, so I hope for your valuable support in promoting Albania.

Your Excellencies,

I am convinced that your mission holds special importance even in this new year. Cooperation, understanding, and intensive meetings to strengthen international relations contribute to a world where tensions are reduced, and dialogue, peace, and prosperity prevail.

Thank you for your role in advancing diplomatic relations. I extend my best wishes to you, your families, and the countries you represent for a prosperous and successful year ahead!