Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ditmir Bushati, is in New York in the framework of the United Nations General Assembly High – Level Meeting on Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace in the World.

During his stay in New York, Minister Bushati also held a lecture at Columbia University, with a wide audience of lecturers, students, scholars and others who are familiar with the developments in the Balkans.

In his remarks, Minister Bushati focused on global geopolitical developments and security challenges in the region, including bilateral relations, consolidation of the rule of law, economic development and the role of third powers.

Minister Bushati highlighted the excellent cooperation with the US whose contribution, based on the strategic partnership, is important for sustainable development and good neighbourly relations in the Balkan region.

The European Commission’s recommendation is an important development for the countries of our region to consolidate the rule of law, the economic development and regional cooperation.

The chief of Albanian diplomacy responded to the questions of participants, on the impact that third factors have on political, economic and social developments in the countries of our region.

During his stay in New York, Minister Bushati held a meeting with UNDP Administrator Achin Steiner. The interlocutors praised UNDP’s contribution to the development of some substantial reforms in Albania.

Minister Bushati spoke highly of the contribution that this organization provides in the framework of implementing the objectives of the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development. Albania plays a leading role in relation to other Balkan countries and will therefore present a voluntary implementation report of the SDOs (sustainable development objectives) to the UN. These objectives are closely interlinked with the global development strategy and our country’s priorities, in the framework of EU membership.

Mr. Bushati held a meeting with Albanians working in the United Nations. The Minister valued the contribution they provide by serving as a linking bridge between the UN and Albanian institutions and society.