Ministry of Foreign Affairs
We expect Albania to take part in the NATO summit in April as a full member – talks between foreign ministers Kinga Göncz and Lulzim Basha
Hungary’s foreign minister, speaking at a news conference after the talks, emphasised the strong nature of relations and a common desire to maintain continuous dialogue. An especially high number of opportunities to expand economic co-operation are on offer, all the more warranted given the relatively low level of bilateral trade.
In this regard a particularly important step forward came in the form of the Memorandum of Understanding which – after the foreign ministers’ talks – was signed by László Süveges-Szabó, the director of the Hungarian Investment and Trade Development Agency (ITD-H), and Gramoz Dudushi, the head of the Tirana Chamber of Commerce.
Ms Göncz said this document secured information for businessmen and would help them get to know each other better. Credit lines from Hungary’s Eximbank will serve further trade expansion. We support the strengthening of expert relations between ITD-H and the ALBINVEST state investment agency – she added.
Albania’s foreign policy is balanced and we very much appreciate diplomatic activities to ease tensions. We judge that Albania plays a significant role in preserving the political stability of the Western Balkans – something which is not easy. Our interest is that Albania, together with Croatia should participate in the NATO Jubilee Summit in April as full members. Our support and involvement was manifested by ratifying first among member-states the protocol on Albania’s accession.
Ms Göncz has also pointed out that the Tirana government has done much to approximate itself to the requirements of the European Union and we count on Albania soon lodging its application for accession. Hungary would like to assist In the process of accession by sharing its own experiences.
In reply to a journalist’s question, Foreign Minister Lulzim Basha said that the date of lodging the request depended on consultations between the Czech Republic, as the current EU president, and the European Commission. At present, the most important task for Albania is to initiate reforms and to pursue stabilizing foreign policy in the region.
In his opening statement at the press conference, Mr Basha expressed thanks for the support extended by Hungary in ratifying the NATO accession protocol as well as the Stability and Association Agreement with the European Union. Albania is also grateful for Hungary’s recognition of Kosovo’s independence.
Mr Basha also said excellent political relations should be followed by higher level co-operation in other areas, too. As examples he mentioned would-be agreements on social insurance and tourism.
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