Albanian President Bajram Begaj, addressing the UN General Assembly, highlighted Kosovo’s role as a contributor to peace and dialogue in the Western Balkans. He emphasized that, 17 years after its independence, Kosovo has proven itself as a responsible member of the international community, committed to stability and democratic values.
“Yet, Kosovo’s seat in this Assembly remains unjustly empty,” Begaj said. “Recognizing its independence and supporting its membership in the UN and other international organizations is an act of justice for the people of Kosovo, and a step that strengthens peace and security in the Western Balkans.”
Begaj also raised the issue of Albanians in the Presheva Valley, calling for respect of their rights, integration, use of the Albanian language, and protection of their identity and culture.
He underlined Albania’s commitment to dialogue, good-neighborly relations, and regional integration as the only path toward lasting stability and prosperity. “Our vision is integration, sustainable development, and the preservation of democratic values. The future of our region lies in cooperation, not conflict,” Begaj stated.
The president also reflected on Albania’s journey from isolation to Euro-Atlantic integration, reaffirming the country’s dedication to concluding EU accession talks by 2027 and achieving full membership by 2030.
Begaj pointed to Albania’s progress in clean energy, climate protection, digital transformation, education, healthcare, and gender equality, stressing inclusiveness as the only way toward sustainable growth.
Reiterating Albania’s commitment to the “Pact for the Future,” he declared: “It is time to turn words into action—on peace, security, climate, digital cooperation, and human rights. Albania will set the example by incorporating the Pact into our National Voluntary Review.”
