The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Olta Xhaçka, during her official visit to North Macedonia, participated in the proceedings of the US-Adriatic Charter (A5) Ministerial.

Minister Xhaçka emphasized that the US-Adriatic Charter (A5) has served the process of Euro-Atlantic integration and the strengthening of regional cooperation in the field of security, as she underlined the need for further growth of this cooperation, especially in the current situation of the region after Russia’s aggression towards Ukraine.

“To be fully successful, the Charter must fully respect its unlimited format. This means the expansion of the Charter with those countries of the region that are politically ready to adhere to our initiative. Since 2014, when Kosovo officially applied for membership in the Charter, this has been one of the weak points of this successful initiative. So, we believe that in order for our initiative to remain healthy and sustainable, we cannot allow it to remain hostage to blocking positions,” she said.

The Albanian chief diplomat emphasized the need for increased regional cooperation aimed at energy security, describing the latter as an essential element of regional and national stability.

“Albania can contribute to the diversification of energy suppliers in the region and in Europe, bringing an important contribution to its liberation from Russia’s dependence. We are fully convinced that the path of Euro-Atlantic integration is the right path for the Western Balkans. European integration is particularly important for further democratization, consolidation of institutions and especially strengthening the rule of law. These, as well as full respect for human and minority rights, are fundamental values that Albania remains determined to preserve and protect,” said Minister Xhaçka during her speech.

The work of the US-Adriatic Charter initiative (A5) was held in three different sessions, mainly focused on strengthening regional cooperation, support to Ukraine, as well as current security and economic challenges in the region.

/k.s/