Begaj at UN: Kosovo deserves its place in Assembly

Albania's President Bajram Begaj, in his speech at the general debate of the United Nations Assembly in New York, stressed Kosovo's role as contributing to peace and dialogue in the Western Balkans. He said that 17 years after declaring independence, Kosovo has testified in action that it is a responsible member of the international community, dedicated to stability and democratic values.

“However, Kosovo's country in this Assembly remains unjustly empty. Recognition of its independence and support for UN membership and other international organisations is an act of justice to the people of Kosovo, and a step strengthening peace and security in the Western Balkans,” said Begaj.

It also called for respecting the rights and freedoms of Albanians of the Presevo Valley, their integration, the use of Albanian language and the protection of their identity and culture.

President Begaj stressed that Albania actively promotes dialogue, good neighbourly relations and regional integration as the only way towards sustainable stability and prosperity. Our “Vision is integration, sustainable development and preservation of democratic values. The future of our region lies in co-operation, not conflict,” he said.

Next, the head of State recalled Albania's journey from isolation to Euro-Atlantic integration and stressed commitment to concluding EU membership negotiations in 2027 and full membership by 2030.

Begaj also underlined Albania's advances in clean energy, protection from climate change, digital transformation, education, health and gender equality, viewing overall inclusion as the only path towards sustainable development.

He recalled Albania's commitment to the Future <x0). “Albania will set the example by including the Pact in our National Volunteer Review,” stressed President Begaj./Periscopi/