The President of the Republic, Ilir Meta, held today a meeting with the President of the Republic of Croatia, Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, in Zagreb.

In a press release from the head of state, Meta expressed deep appreciation for the strong support that President Grabar-Kitarović and Croatia have given to Albania especially in the framework of the European integration process.

Referring to the strong historical ties and brilliant relations between the two countries, as well as the common Euro-Atlantic vision, President Meta stressed that it is time for these relations to be strengthened at the Strategic Partnership level.

The President praised in particular the role and contribution of the Albanian community living in Croatia as a bridge in strengthening friendly relations between the two countries.

Both presidents agreed that, within the framework of the Skanderbeg year, they would hold a joint visit to the 300-year-old community of Zadar Arbanas.

The presidents stressed the necessity of evading the EU enlargement process with the Western Balkan countries and praised the very important role that this Bruno-Brijuni process can play in this regard.

President Meta expressed confidence in Croatia’s support for the forthcoming launch of EU membership negotiations, a very important support for Albania and encouraging the continuation of reforms and meeting the necessary criteria.

It is vital for Albania and the Western Balkans region to have an inclusive agenda and concrete EU membership deadlines – President Meta underlined.

Presidents Meta and Kitarović agreed that the Croatian President’s state visit to Albania will take place in the coming months./tvklan.al