President Begaj Meets with Israeli State President Isaac Herzog
President of the Republic, H. E. Mr. Bajram Begaj, today hosted a meeting with the President of the State of Israel, H. E. Mr. Isaac Herzog, marking the first visit by an Israeli President to Albania.
The meeting highlighted bilateral cooperation, developments in the Western Balkans including Kosova, the Middle East situation, and cybersecurity issues.
President Begaj saw this visit as an excellent opportunity to explore new avenues for enhancing cooperation, reaffirming Albania’s commitment to this cause. He remarked, “Albania and Israel are friendly countries that share unique historical moments that bind us forever.”
President Begaj expressed pride in recalling Albania’s protection of Jews during World War II, a sentiment he noted is shared by Albanians in Kosova and the broader Western Balkan region.
He emphasized the geopolitical significance of Israel’s recognition of Kosova’s independence, highlighting its positive regional impact.
Regarding developments in the Balkans, President Begaj mentioned the region’s vulnerability to threats, including terrorism, extremism, migration, hybrid threats, and cybersecurity, exacerbated by the presence of destabilizing external actors. He thanked Israel for enhancing Albania’s cybersecurity capacities, especially following the critical cyberattacks from Iran in 2022.
In their discussions on the Middle East, President Begaj reaffirmed Albania’s stance: “Albania has strongly and unequivocally condemned the terrorist attacks of October 7, 2023, by Hamas against Israel. Such acts are unprecedented and indefensible,” stating that Albania harshly condemned the abduction of civilians, including women, the elderly, and children, and called for their immediate release.
“We welcome the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages,” stated President Begaj during the meeting with President Herzog, reiterating calls for continued humanitarian aid to all in need and expressing a desire for an end to the suffering of the civilian population.
President Begaj reaffirmed Albania’s full support for the plan presented by President Biden, aimed at achieving a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, increased humanitarian aid for Gaza, and diplomatic talks as the only viable solution to the crisis.
