Representatives of the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade met with Bujanovac Mayor Arber Pajaziti on Tuesday to discuss issues affecting the Albanian community in southern Serbia, local media reported.
Pajaziti said the meeting focused on continued cooperation with the U.S. Embassy and matters of importance to Albanians living in the Preševo Valley.
According to the Bujanovačke portal, Pajaziti said he discussed the greater integration of Albanians into Serbia’s state institutions, with particular emphasis on increasing their representation in the police and other public institutions.
He described greater inclusion in public institutions as an important issue for ensuring equal treatment and fair representation.
Pajaziti also thanked the U.S. Embassy for what he described as its continued support and interest in issues directly affecting residents of the area.
“Cooperation and dialogue with our partners are important for Bujanovac, for greater opportunities, equality and prospects for everyone,” Pajaziti said.
The Bujanovac mayor hosted U.S. Embassy First Secretary Pepin Helgers, Political Section Officer Ksenija Lazović and Political Officer Joseph Gajeski.
The Preševo Valley, which includes the municipalities of Bujanovac and Preševo, is home to a significant ethnic Albanian population and has long been the focus of discussions concerning representation in state institutions, public services and local economic development.
