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Three weeks after Edi Rama's re-election, Albania's Foreign Minister, Igli Hasani, visited Athens – where he met with his counterpart, Giorgos Gerapetritis.
Speaking to "Kathimerini", he underlined the close cooperation between the two Foreign Ministries to find a solution to the issue of delimitation of maritime zones, as well as to protect the rights of the Greek ethnic minority in Albania and the property issue.
Edi Rama won the elections in Albania for the fourth time. What awaits Albania and Greek-Albanian relations in the future?
The strong support shown by Albanians living in Greece for Rama reflects both their confidence in his leadership and their faith in the reforms undertaken by our government. It reflects the deep connection that our diaspora holds with the democratic and developmental path of the country. Regarding the future of Greek-Albanian relations, we are determined to deepen cooperation based on mutual respect, shared values and strategic interests.
"The Albanian government is determined to address property claims in a fair, transparent and legally sound manner."
Is there any progress on the issue of defining maritime zones?
The issue of maritime delimitation is one of the issues that we are committed to resolving with our Greek counterparts. As previously agreed, we continue to explore frameworks aimed at finding a mutually acceptable, legally sound and sustainable solution, in accordance with international law. This issue, like other unresolved issues, is part of a broader dialogue shaped by trust and constructive cooperation.
What measures are being taken to ensure the rights of the Greek national minority?
Albania remains strongly committed to the protection and promotion of the rights of all national minorities, including the Greek minority, which is an integral and respected part of our society. We have approximated our legal framework to European standards and will continue to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their nationality, enjoy full rights and equal treatment under the law. We also believe that minority communities are a bridge of friendship between our two countries. The Greek minority in Albania and the Albanian community in Greece are living examples of this enduring bond.
Approximately 8,000 complaints have been filed in the courts of Vlora regarding the property issue…
Property rights are a sensitive and long-standing issue not only for minority communities, but also for many citizens, due to the complex period of transition after communism. The Albanian government is committed to addressing property claims in a fair, transparent and legally sound manner. For example, we have implemented reforms in the procedures for registration, digitalization and restitution of property. We understand the historical weight and human impact of each case and are committed to resolving them in accordance with European legal standards.
Is your government considering incentives to attract Greek investment?
Greek investors are welcome partners and we look forward to expanding cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, cross-border tourism and sustainable development.
How do you see Greece's role in Albania's EU accession process?
As two neighbors with deep historical and geographical ties, we believe that Albania's accession to the EU serves Greece's strategic interest in promoting stability and prosperity in the region. With the four working groups already established, we are focused on achieving results and count on Greece to remain a strong supporter of the enlargement of the Western Balkans within the EU.
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