Hoxha from New York: Regional cooperation, a necessity for security and well-being in the Western Balkans

On the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, took part in a discussion on strengthening regional cooperation, organized under Romania’s chairmanship of the Central European Initiative (CEI) and the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP).

Minister Hoxha stressed that in a world shaped by growing uncertainty, war, hybrid threats, cyberattacks and economic pressures, our response must be clear: more cooperation, not fragmentation; more dialogue, not confrontation; and more practical action, the Foreign Ministry’s press office said in a media announcement.

According to Hoxha, regional cooperation is no longer just a matter of good neighborly relations, but a strategic necessity.

“For Albania, regional cooperation remains a cornerstone of our foreign policy and a strategic investment in the peace, security, stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans and Europe as a whole,” Hoxha said.

For the foreign minister, regional cooperation and EU membership are mutually reinforcing.

“Stronger regional ties help advance the European perspective, while the prospect of EU membership offers a powerful incentive for cooperation, reform and connectivity. Trust enables cooperation, cooperation strengthens resilience, and resilience creates opportunities for our citizens,” the Minister concluded.