Ibrahimović visits Tirana: Montenegro and Albania share responsibility for preserving the region's European perspective

Montenegro and Albania today, in addition to geographical space, share a common responsibility for preserving the stability and European perspective of the region, it was announced at a meeting between Montenegrin Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimović and Albanian Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha.

Ibrahimović, as announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MVP), is on an official visit to Albania, during which, in addition to Hoxha, he also met with the Deputy Speaker of the Albanian Parliament, Klodiana Spahiu, as well as members of the parliamentary friendship group between Montenegro and Albania.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that during the substantive and friendly talks, the traditionally close and intensive relations between Montenegro and Albania were confirmed, based on the principles of good neighborliness, mutual trust and shared commitment to European and Euro-Atlantic values, noting that there are no open issues between the two countries.

At the meeting with Hoxha, it was added, discussions focused on improving bilateral cooperation, current regional and international issues, the European perspective of the Western Balkans, as well as further strengthening the partnership within the NATO alliance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that special emphasis was placed on infrastructural and economic connections, including the development of tourism potential in the border area and closer cooperation between businessmen from both countries.

"The interlocutors noted that Montenegro and Albania today share not only geographical space, but also a common responsibility for preserving the stability, security and European perspective of the region," the statement said.

As it is added, it was particularly emphasized that both countries are fully aligned with the Common Foreign and Security Policy of the European Union (EU), which, as stated, is a confirmation of their clear strategic orientation and commitment to common European values.

"The ministers agreed that the countries' progress in the European integration process represents a success for the entire region," the MFA said.

It is stated that during the meetings with Spahiju and members of the parliamentary friendship group of Montenegro and Albania, the importance of strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation as an additional incentive for overall bilateral relations was confirmed.

"The need for continued political dialogue, intensification of contacts and joint work on issues of interest to the citizens of both countries was particularly emphasized," the statement said.

It is added that both sides noted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy with EU member states in order to ensure the widest possible support for membership in the Union.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that attention was also paid to the position of minority communities, which represent one of the most important links between the two countries.

"The need to preserve the national, cultural and religious identity of minority communities was highlighted, with full respect for the highest European and international standards," the statement added.

It is stated that during the visit, strong support for the European perspective of the region was confirmed, with the assessment that Montenegro and Albania, as countries actively conducting accession negotiations with the EU, have a special responsibility to be a successful example of responsible regional cooperation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Ibrahimović's visit will end with a ceremonial reception on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the restoration of Montenegro's independence, organized by the Embassy of Montenegro in Tirana, which will be opened by two ministers.

As it is added, the reception will be attended by representatives of Albanian state institutions, the diplomatic corps, religious communities, the diaspora and friends of Montenegro.

"A clear message has been sent from Tirana that Montenegro and Albania remain friendly and allied states, determined to continue building a more prosperous and secure future for their citizens and the entire region through mutual trust, regional cooperation, and a common European path," the statement concluded.