During his official visit to Gjilan, where he was awarded the title “Honorary Citizen,” Albanian President Bajram Begaj emphasized that the shared future of Kosovo and Albania must be within the European Union. In his speech, Begaj conveyed the message that both nations must work together on the path to EU membership.
In his address at the ceremony organized by the Municipality of Gjilan, Begaj also highlighted Albania’s continuous support for Kosovo, both during the war in 1999 and in the years following its independence. He reaffirmed that Albania would remain close to Kosovo, even in times of peace.
“We want to be part of Europe because we belong to it with our values and history. We are a people that believes in democracy, freedom, justice, and in the Euro-Atlantic values of a developed Albania. Albania and Kosovo must look at their future with a shared commitment to the European Union,” said President Begaj.
Alban Hyseni, the Mayor of Gjilan, thanked President Begaj for his support and awarded him the title “Honorary Citizen” for his contributions to Kosovo’s independence and his ongoing help to the country. Hyseni emphasized that Albania’s support is crucial for Kosovo’s integration into the European family.
“In these times, when Kosovo is rapidly consolidating its position and aiming for EU membership, Albania’s role as a strong supporter remains vital,” Hyseni stated.
Representatives from political parties in the Gjilan Municipal Assembly also expressed their gratitude to President Begaj. Gentrit Murseli, an assembly member from the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), noted that Begaj understands Kosovo’s history as a guide for the future, while Bujar Nevzati from the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) emphasized the need for further steps toward unification between Kosovo and Albania.
Nazim Gagica from the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK) reiterated the unbreakable bond between Kosovo and Albania, saying, “By declaring President Begaj as ‘Honorary Citizen,’ we reaffirm once again our unshakeable connection with the state of Albania.”
During his two-day visit to Kosovo, President Begaj is scheduled to meet with top state officials.
