Haxhinasto visits Budapest

TIRANA, Nov. 13 – Foreign Minister Edmond Haxhinasto made a two-day visit to Budapest, Hungary where he talked with his host counterpart Janos Martonyi.
They talked on issues of European integration, particularly in the context of the Hungarian preparations for the EU rotating Presidency in the first half of 2011, Albania’s progress in the European integration process, bilateral relations and their materialization in the economic area, issues related to the Western Balkans as well as the cooperation between our two countries, in the framework of international organizations.
Haxhinasto expressed the confidence that the process of EU enlargement to the Western Balkan countries will continue to remain a priority of the Hungarian EU Presidency, considering the European prospect for Western Balkans a very important incentive for the institution and implementation of domestic reforms and for an effective regional cooperation.
Haxhinasto urged increased cooperation with Hungary, especially with regard to the assistance in his country’s European integration path.
Both countries were urged to intensify the economic cooperation, trade exchanges, the dialogue among the business and its institutions.
Martonyi commended the relations the two countries have established and also appreciated Albania’s progress in the reform path and the European integration process.
he also hailed the successful finalization of the visa liberalization process for Albanian citizens.
Martonyi assured that his country will continue to stand close to Albania and Western Balkan countries in their process of integration to the European family.
Both sides praised the very good level of bilateral cooperation and expressed the shared will to step up this cooperation at all areas, and particularly to trade and economy.
Haxhinasto also took part and held a speech at the Conference ” Integration of Western Balkans to the EU and the EU Hungarian Presidency” hosted by the International Center for Democratic Transition and the Euro-Atlantic Center for Integration and Democracy”.
Haxhinasto emphasized that the historic decision for the free movement of Albanians into the Schengen area was the outcome of a process based on individual merits. This decision was also a result of serious investments in human capacities, technology as well as in drafting and implementing an efficient legal frame.
Albania will continue to play a constructive role in promoting cooperation, peace and stability in our region, being an important contributor to its integration, he said.
Haxhinasto considered Kosovo as a new reality for the region and its inclusion at all regional projects and initiatives as essential, not only for Kosovo, but for the prosperity of our whole region as well.