Albania has the opportunity to succeed within the framework of the European family

Slovenia remains a strong advocate of the EU enlargement to the countries of the Western Balkans. "We are aware that the accession to the European Union is an important step and we are certain that Albania has an equal opportunity for success within the framework of the European family, as Slovenia has attained during the 20 years of its membership. To this end, we support the Albanian efforts for membership of the European Union and simultaneously urge its further reforms that will contribute to the realisation of this objective," the Slovenian President emphasised.

On this note, she also commended the progress Albania had made in the field of judicial reform and commended its full compliance with the foreign policy of the European Union. Decisive action regarding the fight against corruption and organised crime must continue to take place.

The Brdo-Brijuni Process, actively pursued by President Pirc Musar, is also intended to promote mutual cooperation and facilitate the efforts of the countries in the region on their path to the European Union. This year’s meeting will take place in North Macedonia on 11 and 12 September. At the summit, the heads of state will particularly focus on climate change issues and the challenges faced by young people in the region. "I believe that we will be able to form joint solutions that will reflect our concerns and provide a solid political support for efficient addressing of these two pressing challenges," President Pirc Musar stressed in connection with the expectations of this year’s Brdo-Brijuni Process.

During today’s discussion, the Slovenian President underlined the desire to enhance economic cooperation, as Slovenia sees great potential in this field for further advancement. In 2023, the economic exchange between the countries amounted to somewhat less than EUR 93 million. With her active involvement, the President wishes to contribute to this number increasing significantly over the next five years, "Slovenia is striving to promote trade and investment in Albania. To realise this in practice, we must focus on ensuring a sound business environment and reducing the administrative burden. We have identified several possible fields to enhance cooperation, such as protection of the environment and water, agriculture, energy, infrastructure and tourism. We are pleased to note that Slovenians are increasingly discovering Albania, particularly in the summer."

President Pirc Musar thanked her Albanian counterpart for the constructive discussion and expressed the certainty that the visit would further strengthen the already friendly relations and contribute to continued cooperation between Slovenia and Albania. Tomorrow, both presidents will visit the museums of apiculture and honey-bread making in Radovljica and conclude their visit in Bled. During his official visit, the Albanian President is accompanied by his spouse, Armanda Begaj, who today visited the centre of excellence, InnoRenew CoE, in Izola and viewed Piran.