Acting Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Gent Cakaj received today the Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Foreign Affairs of Austria Alexander Schallenberg, who is on an official visit to Tirana. Being particularly significant given the time surrounding it, this visit comes at a crucial moment in view of the circumstances. On his part, Minister Schellenberg assured Austria’s support for the launch of the EU membership negotiations for Albania.

‘Our discussion centred around Albania’s achievements concerning the 5 key priorities laying the groundwork for a positive decision in favour of the start of the EU talks. Austria has clearly expressed its support, and is convinced that no other alternative other than the membership in the European Union is out there for Albania. This is the time to seize the historic moment for the start of talks for Albania!’ Cake writes in a Facebook post.

However, discussion also revolved around the bilateral relations, and the need for improved cooperation in areas, including energy, transport, and infrastructure. Additionally, cooperation hitherto in the field of multilateral diplomacy, ranging from cooperation under the OSCE to the support for Albania’s nomination for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the period between 2022 and 2023, was appreciated in a positive way.

In terms of the Albanian OSCE Chairmanship, Austria has also offered technical assistance by assigning an Austrian expert to assist the Albanian Chairmanship during the next year.