TIRANA, December 16 – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Elisa Spiropali called on Greece to repeal the wartime law against Albania. She described the law as an atavistic legal reference dating back to the Second World War.

Earlier today, the Albanian minister spoke at a joint press conference in Athens. Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis attended the event. The meetings, according to Spiropali, strengthened confidence in bilateral friendship.

At the same time, she stated that the current moment allowed both sides to address pending issues. She also referred to existing matters affecting bilateral relations.

Meanwhile, Spiropali said Albania and Greece should open a new chapter without delay. She added that both countries should view the past through the lens of a shared future.

In addition, the minister stressed the need to strengthen communication between Albanian and Greek publics. She referred to academic circles as a key channel. She also mentioned professional organizations. Interest groups and students formed part of this approach.

Regarding strategic relations, Spiropali said Albania and Greece acted as partners in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. She recalled that a Friendship Treaty bound the two countries. She also highlighted their shared European perspective.

On this basis, Albania supported the removal of all atavistic legal references from the Second World War. These references, she said, affected current relations. They did not reflect the reality of allied and friendly ties.

Also, Spiropali thanked Minister Gerapetritis for the leadership. She praised his future-oriented vision. Repealing the law, she added, would strengthen cooperation. It would also reinforce the shared European vision.

Turning to property issues, Spiropali addressed cases involving Albanian citizens and entities in Greece. She called for a gradual approach. She also emphasized realism. Both sides, she said, should act within the relevant legal framework and the European spirit.

During the talks, the two sides discussed historical issues openly. Legal and property matters also featured in the discussions. The dialogue took place within constructive bilateral cooperation.

As a result, both parties stressed the importance of gradual steps. This approach, according to Spiropali, would build mutual trust. It would also further develop friendly relations.

On border matters, Spiropali said both sides remained open to dialogue. Albania, she stated, remained committed to resolving border-related issues. Maritime delimitation formed part of this commitment.

In this context, Albania acted in line with international law. The country followed principles of good neighborly relations. It also adhered to core European Union values. Peaceful dispute resolution and regional stability remained priorities.

Later, Spiropali continued her 2-day official visit to Greece.

/a.p./