Greece Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis, right, and his Albanian counterpart Igli Hasani pose to photographers before their meeting in Athens, Tuesday. [Petros Giannakouris/AP]
Three weeks after Edi Rama’s re-election as prime minister, Albanian Foreign Minister Igli Hasani visited Nicosia and Athens, where he met with his Greek counterpart, George Gerapetritis. In an interview with Kathimerini, Hasani emphasized the close cooperation between the two foreign ministries in seeking a resolution to the maritime border delimitation issue, as well as addressing the protection of the Greek ethnic minority’s rights in Albania, including property-related matters.
Edi Rama won the elections in Albania for the fourth time. What does the future hold for Albania and Greek-Albanian relations?
The strong support shown for Prime Minister Rama among Albanians residing in Greece is a reflection of both their continued trust in his leadership and their belief in the reforms undertaken by our government. It also illustrates the deep connection our diaspora maintains with the country’s democratic and developmental path.
As for the future of Albanian-Greek relations, we are committed to deepening cooperation based on mutual respect, shared values, and strategic interest. Albania and Greece are neighbors, partners, and friends. We have lived next to each other for generations, and our peoples are linked through historical ties, economic exchanges, and cultural affinities. The goal moving forward is to reinforce this foundation through open dialogue and forward-looking diplomacy that benefits both our societies and contributes to regional stability.
Has there been any progress regarding the maritime border demarcation?
The issue of maritime delimitation is among the matters we remain committed to addressing with our Greek counterparts. As previously agreed, we continue to consider frameworks that aim to provide a mutually acceptable, legally sound, and sustainable solution in line with international law.
This issue, like other pending matters, is part of a broader dialogue shaped by trust and constructive engagement. Our countries share a long history of coexistence and cooperation, and we believe that through steady diplomatic efforts, we can move towards solutions that reflect our mutual interests.
What measures are being taken to ensure the rights of the minority and protect their identity?
Albania remains firmly committed to the protection and promotion of the rights of all national minorities, including the Greek minority, which is an integral and respected part of our society. We have aligned our legal framework with European standards and will continue to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity, enjoy full rights and equal treatment under the law.
We also firmly believe that minority communities represent a bridge of friendship between our two countries. The Greek minority in Albania and the Albanian community in Greece are living examples of this enduring connection. We are committed to nurturing this relationship based on respect, inclusion, and shared European values.
Delving deeper into the “thorny” issue of property, approximately 8.000 appeals have been filed in the courts of Vlora. How can this issue be resolved?
Property rights are a sensitive and long-standing issue, not only for minority communities but also for many citizens, due to the complex post-communist transition. The Albanian government is determined to address property claims in a fair, transparent, and legally sound manner.
We have made notable reforms in property registration, digitization, and restitution processes. We understand the historical weight and human impact behind each case and are committed to resolving them with care and in line with European legal standards. Dialogue with all stakeholders, including international partners, will remain central in ensuring that these efforts are successful.
Is your government considering new incentives to attract more Greek investments?
Absolutely. Albania offers growing potential in areas such as energy, tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure. We view Greek investment as a natural extension of our economic relationship, given the proximity of our countries and the long-standing presence of Greek businesses in Albania.
We are constantly working to improve the business climate, simplify procedures, and offer competitive incentives. Greek investors are welcome partners, and we look forward to expanding cooperation in renewable energy, cross-border tourism, and sustainable development.
How do you see Greece’s role in supporting or influencing the process towards EU accession?
As two neighbors deeply connected through history and geography, we believe that Albania’s EU membership also serves Greece’s strategic interest in promoting stability and prosperity in the region. With four clusters already opened, we are focused on delivering results, and we count on Greece to remain a strong advocate within the EU for the Western Balkans’ enlargement.