President of the Republic, H.E. Mr. Bajram Begaj, Speaks at the 27th United States-Adriatic Charter (A5) Conference
This conference convenes at a particularly delicate moment for global security. Recent developments highlight the critical importance of investing in security and creating platforms for cooperation and interaction that promote regional security and create conditions for a more stable and secure environment.
The success of the A5 Initiative is undeniable. Since its establishment in 2003, initially as the A3 Initiative, it has significantly aided the NATO integration process of our countries.
Our collaboration within this Initiative has served as a bridge for building strong relationships not only between our countries but also with our strategic partner, the United States.
For Albania, NATO membership signifies our belonging to the Euroatlantic community and represents a natural stage in our national journey. It is not just about enhancing security but also about deepening commitment and cooperation among ourselves and with our partners. We must not forget history, lest we risk repeating mistakes.
I believe that through our joint efforts and commitment to Euroatlantic values, we are capable of facing these challenges and ensuring that the Western Balkans move towards a more secure and stable future.
In this context, Albania’s and the Albanians’ role in the region is clear and constructive.
Albania has played and will continue to play a key role in maintaining peace and stability in the Western Balkans. Albanians in the region are a constructive and moderate factor contributing to peace, security, and stability. Furthermore, they have proven to be staunch supporters of the European and Euroatlantic future of our region.
In collaboration with our allies, we have continuously worked to strengthen security in the region and to promote the full integration of the Western Balkans into Euroatlantic structures. It is important to include new members who wish to join the US-Adriatic Charter Initiative and NATO.
The inclusion of Kosova in this Charter is essential not only for Kosova’s security but also for the stability of the entire region. Despite being a new state, Kosovo has shown a commitment to peace and cooperation and is a contributing factor to security in the Western Balkans.
The US-Adriatic Charter Initiative has proven over the years to be a powerful and effective instrument for promoting peace, security, and cooperation between our countries and the United States. I am convinced that it will continue to contribute to the further integration of our region into the Euroatlantic family.
Our cooperation with the United States remains a cornerstone for all our efforts. Thanks to this stable and strong strategic partnership, we have the confidence and assurance that the Western Balkans will continue to be a region of peace and stability.
Just yesterday, dear friends, an event with young people from the Mediterranean was held in Albania. Fifty youths of different religious beliefs participated. Albania was chosen for this event because it has demonstrated that interfaith cooperation, respect, and acceptance of others are crucial. I believe that to these young people yesterday and to the youth of our region today, we must send the message that only by cooperating with each other, only by working more each day to strengthen security in our region, can we leave them a better future, a place where they deserve to live and flourish.
I believe the youth deserve this message.