Speaker of Parliament Niko Peleshi continued his official visit to the United States. He met Deputy Secretary of State Michael Rigas and Senator Marco Rubio at the U.S. Department of State.

The meeting highlighted the strong partnership between Albania and the United States. Both sides based this partnership on shared democratic values and close cooperation that supports their common future.

Peleshi reaffirmed that the United States remains Albania’s main strategic partner. He thanked the U.S. for its steady support in Albania’s Euro-Atlantic path and internal reforms. He also underlined Parliament’s vital role in driving these reforms forward.

They discussed cooperation in security and defense, the rule of law, and joint efforts against organized crime in the region. They also explored ways to expand trade, attract U.S. investments, and strengthen economic ties in key sectors.

Both sides praised Albania as a reliable NATO ally. Peleshi confirmed Albania’s readiness to meet new defense spending goals and host the upcoming NATO Summit.

The talks also covered regional connectivity and security projects. They focused on developing Porto Romano and advancing Corridor 8 as a vital European route linking the Adriatic and the Black Sea. Peleshi said the project promotes growth, stability, and Euro-Atlantic integration.

Peleshi and Rigas reviewed the situation in the Western Balkans, with special attention to Kosovo. They recognized the role of Albanians as a key factor for stability and peace. Both sides valued the U.S. as a guarantor of peace and integration in the region.

They considered the meeting an important step for Albania’s parliamentary diplomacy and a milestone in deepening the Albania–US strategic partnership. Peleshi emphasized Parliament’s role in promoting stronger cooperation between the two nations.