Begaj: Partnership with US essential for Kosovo, delays in establishment of institutions undermine national interest

“Integration processes, democratisation of society, especially Kosovo, are closely linked to the US partnership,” President Begaj said.

Commenting on the current political situation in Kosovo, where the US State Department has cut off official communication with Albin Kurti Government, President Begaj was cautious, leaving the analysis of Kosovo authorities in hand, but stressing that the relationship with the US is historic and should be preserved.

“Strategic Partnership with the US for us Albanians is very important. It has been a historical relationship that should continue to be so in the future,” he said.

Regarding the UN criticism of blocking the establishment of new institutions in Kosovo, President Begaj stressed that this issue directly affects the lives of citizens and not just the political class.

The establishment of institutions is very important, not only for Kosovo politicians, but mostly for Kosovo citizens. The people's right is to vote, and politicians are to run,” stressed Albania's president.

He underlined the importance of maintaining relations with historic allies, including international security missions such as KFOR in Kosovo and ALTEA in Bosnia.

As for relations with Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani, who have been commented in the context of UN criticism of Kosovo institutions, Begaj assured that reports between the two presidencys are at the right level and in the function of national interests.

“We have very good relations, we communicate, we talk, we share thoughts and we are co-ordinated for our activities, especially for the lobbiing that Kosovo becomes a member of international organisations,” he said.

President Begaj added that delays in establishing institutions harm not only Kosovo, but also national interest as a whole.

The “Time factor is very important for Kosovo and the sooner institutions are established, the better it will be for the state of Kosovo. Not only for the state of Kosovo, but for all Albanians,” he declared.

At the end of the interview, commenting on the regional impact of developments in Kosovo, Begaj stressed the importance of national unity and the power of co-operation among Albanians wherever they are located.

We as Albanians should all be together. We have our expression: we are stronger together,” President Begaj concluded for ABC News.