Kosovo: excellent meeting between Minister Alfano and his counterpart Hoxhaj

An excellent meeting was held between Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Angelino Alfano, and his Kosovo counterpart, Enver Hoxhaj.Minister Hoxhaj thanked Minister Alfano for his visit, a tangible sign of the friendship that Italy has shown in firmly supporting Kosovo on its path towards independence and in contributing to bringing stability in the Balkans.Minister Hoxhaj also said he was very interested in further strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries so as to make Italy an ever stronger economic partner of Kosovo in every sector.Alfano underlined the importance of stability in the Balkans, which is strategic for Europe’s own stability. He added: “I am convinced that stability in the Balkans can also have positive effects on security at global level.””Italy too is interested in promoting stronger economic cooperation relations with Kosovo, because peace goes hand in hand with wellbeing, strengthening friendship and turning it into a contagious example. One of our political goals,” said Alfano, “is working towards a strong European integration of the region. Among other things, we share a special sensitivity on issues such as the fight against international terrorism and foreign fighters.”Minister Alfano concluded the talks by confirming “the profound friendship between Italy and Kosovo, appreciation for the efforts Kosovo has made in furthering its dialogue with Belgrade and an encouragement to continue strengthening the institutions and pressing ahead with the process of building the legal conditions necessary to join and participate in several international organisations. Italy will back these candidacies within a context that needs to be handled with balance and gradually, while at the same time stepping up economic cooperation and promoting permanent consultations with Kosovo during the Italian Chairmanship of the Berlin Process in 2017.”
In the afternoon Minister Alfano also met the President of Kosovo, Hashim Thaci, and Prime Minister, Isa Mustafa.