Balkans | Albanian Leader Bijaj: Croatia is a good example not only for Albania but also for the region

Albanian President Bajram Bijaj said that Croatia’s membership in the European Union is a good example for both his country and the region.

Bijaj met his Croatian counterpart, Zoran Milanovic, in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, where he had come for official talks.

Speaking at the joint press conference, Bijaj stated that they discussed the strengthening of mutual relations, the process of Albania’s membership in the European Union and the latest developments in the region. He said.

Noting that Albania supports both the Belgrade-Pristina-Ukraine dialogue process, Pegaj said that Albania and Croatia also have historical and traditional ties.

Stating that economic relations could be improved much more, Bijaj said, “Our door is always open for investments and projects from Croatia. Croatia has incredible experience, especially in the field of energy and tourism.” He said.

The Albanian leader added that it is of great importance to connect the coastal cities directly by flights.

The real problem is Western European prejudices towards the Balkans and Muslims.

Milanovic expressed that Albania’s relations with his country are friendly, and indicated that they support Albania on its way to the European Union.

Milanovic said: “Albania should have been at a more advanced stage of integration with the EU. There is not a single realistic political, security or economic reason why Albania should not remain at the end of the negotiations.” He said.

Noting that the majority of the Albanian population is Muslim, Milanović said, “The real problem is Western European prejudices towards the Balkans and Muslims.” Use the phrase.

Stressing that Kosovo is recognized by many EU and NATO member states, Milanovic stressed that he believes Kosovo is part of the European Union and that it will be recognized by all EU members in the near future.

Expressing the acceptance of the “Kosovo reality” by the vast majority of Serb citizens, Milanovic said that Serbia’s recognition of Kosovo’s independence is part of the solution process.

In assessing the current situation in the Republika Srpska of two entities in Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Milanovic said he believes the region is not threatened by conflict.

Bijaj, who was received at an official ceremony in Zagreb, met Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Parliament Speaker Goran Jandruković. Pejaj will continue its contacts in Croatia tomorrow in the coastal city of Zadar.

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