The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Olta Xhaçka, held a meeting with the Minister of the United Kingdom for Europe, Wendy Morton. The focus of the discussions was the strengthening of bilateral cooperation with a focus on economic and trade relations, as well as the commitment to cooperate on priorities at the UN Security Council.

Minister Xhaçka stressed that the United Kingdom is an important friend of Albania and an ally of the Western Balkans.

“Minister Morton’s visit marks the opening of a new phase in bilateral relations and cooperation between Albania and the United Kingdom. It is a very symbolic moment, as this year we mark the hundredth anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations, in the distant year 1921, and it is on this anniversary that we are working closely to give this relationship a new dimension not only economic, political and cultural exchanges, but also in cooperation in international organizations”, said Minister Xhaçka after the meeting.

On the other hand, Minister Morton said that by agreeing to hold the Joint Partnership Council, the United Kingdom has reaffirmed its support for Albania’s international agenda and reforms.

“The United Kingdom reaffirms its commitment to a closer relationship with Albania and to play an ongoing positive role in the Western Balkans. The United Kingdom continues to be a strong friend and ally of Albania and the Western Balkans,” she said.

The two countries have pledged to work together even more closely in NATO and especially through the United Nations Security Council, as Albania begins its two-year mandate in January 2022.

The Joint Partnership Council will also provide opportunities for renewed cooperation on good governance and the rule of law. The two countries also pledged to work together with other international partners on climate change, the environment and the green economy, while awaiting the meeting of world leaders, which will be attended by the Albanian Prime Minister, in Glasgow in November for the summit of UN COP26 climate.