DPM Ibrahimović pays official visit to Tirana: Montenegro and Albania are not just neighbours, but allies and partners

Deputy Prime Minister of Montenegro and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ervin Ibrahimović payed an official visit to Albania, during which he met with Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha, Vice President of the Albanian Parliament Klodiana Spahiu, as well as members of the Montenegro – Albania parliamentary friendship group.

The substantive and friendly discussions reaffirmed the traditionally close and intensive relations between Montenegro and Albania, based on the principles of good neighbourly relations, mutual trust and a shared commitment to European and Euro-Atlantic values. It was also noted that there are no open issues between the two countries.

The meeting with Minister Hoxha focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation, current regional and international issues, the European perspective of the Western Balkans and further strengthening partnership within the NATO alliance. Special emphasis was placed on infrastructure and economic connectivity, including the development of tourism potential in the border region and closer cooperation between business communities from both countries.

The two officials noted that Montenegro and Albania today share not only a geographical space, but also a common responsibility for preserving the stability, security and European future of the region. In that regard, it was particularly emphasised that both countries are fully aligned with the European Union’s Common Foreign and Security Policy, confirming their clear strategic orientation and commitment to shared European values. They agreed that progress in the European integration process by the countries of the region represents success for the entire region.

Meetings with Vice President of the Albanian Parliament Klodiana Spahiu and members of the Montenegro and Albania parliamentary friendship group stressed the importance of strengthening interparliamentary cooperation as an additional incentive for overall bilateral relations. The importance of continuous political dialogue, intensified contacts and joint work on issues of interest to the citizens of both countries was especially emphasised. Both sides also noted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy with EU member states in order to secure broader support for EU membership.

Special attention was also attached to the position of minority communities, which represent one of the most important links between the two countries. The importance of preserving the national, cultural and religious identity of minority communities was highlighted, with full respect for the highest European and international standards.

The visit reaffirmed strong support for the European perspective of the region, along with the assessment that Montenegro and Albania, as countries actively conducting accession negotiations with the European Union, have a special responsibility to serve as a successful example of responsible regional cooperation.

The visit ended with a ceremonial reception marking the 20th anniversary of the restoration of Montenegro’s independence, sponsored by the Embassy of Montenegro in Tirana. The reception was opened by the two officials and attended by representatives of the Albanian state institutions, the diplomatic corps, religious communities, the diaspora and friends of Montenegro.

Montenegro and Albania remain friendly and allied countries, determined to continue building a more prosperous and secure future for their citizens and the entire region through mutual trust, regional cooperation and a shared European path.