Radev to Meta: EU integration of Western Balkans is important for whole Europe

The European integration of the Western Balkans is important not only for the region but for the whole of Europe and Bulgaria will continue to provide the necessary support to its neighbours for its realization. This was stated by Bulgaria’s Head of State Rumen Radev at a meeting with President of the Republic of Albania, Ilir Meta in Jerusalem, the press-secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic of Bulgaria said on January 23.

The two presidents took part in marking the 75th anniversary of the Auschwitz liberation and the Holocaust Remembrance Day.

More than 40 Heads of State and Government from all over the world participate in the commemorative event.

President Radev thanked his Albanian counterpart for the constitutional changes undertaken by Albania, with which the country officially recognized the Bulgarian minority. The forthcoming visit of the Bulgarian head of state to the Republic of Albania was also discussed.

Both Rumen Radev and Ilir Meta highlighted the importance of regional transport, energy and digital connectivity as a necessary factor for economic growth in Southeast Europe. Bulgaria and Albania attach great importance to the construction of Transport Corridor 8, which will facilitate economic and tourist exchange.

Topics related to the regional partnership in Southeastern Europe, cooperation in the field of security and defense were also discussed during the meeeting.

Bulgaria’s Head of State expressed the Bulgarian sympathy for the victims of the severe earthquake in Albania late last year.