NATO HQ Meeting of the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council 15 Dec. 2000

Intervention of H.E. Paskal Milo Minister of Foreign Affairs of Albania Mr. Secretary General Distinguished Colleagues Building long term security and stability has never been so important in South East Europe. As the region is cooping with the inheritance of history, the new challenges in front of us are making our task more imperative. Economic difficulties, proliferation of small and light weapons, illegal trafficking of arms drugs and human beings, fight against terrorism and organized crime are obtaining more and more the status of phenomena that threatens security and stability in our region. Apart from individual efforts, the solution to those problems demands a concerted action by all nations in our region as well as the cooperation of the Euro Atlantic institutions. Important developments have taken place since we last meet in this format. The long awaited changes in the FRY that followed the elections of 24 of September in that country have indeed arisen great interest and hope in the international community. The general elections due in few days in Belgrade are also being followed closely at the expectation that they will confirm the defeat of the Milosevic regime and will pave the way for the reforms that are needed in order to confirm that FRY has truly parted with the past and intends to internally build a truly democratic society and to transform itself in the constructive partner the region needs. We support and encourage the democratic changes in Serbia. We expect the new leadership in Belgrade to deliver on the obligations and promises they have made in front of their own people and the international community. Those changes are of paramount importance for the democratic future of that country but also for the stability, cooperation, security and peace in the region. By addressing those clear messages to the new leadership in Belgrade we would have also liked to see from them responsible actions that aim at building bridges of confidence and understanding between our countries. May also repeat our view that the international attention that developments in Serbia have rightly drown, should not translate necessary to less attention for the other countries in the region. Coming now to Kosova let me emphasize our stand that has strongly encouraged the democratic and peaceful developments there. We condemn any kind of violence and of extremism and would like to see respect for human and minority rights observed, as well as for the rest of the problems to be solved by political means. I would like to express the appreciation of my Government for the endeavors of the international community UNMIK, OSCE, NATO etc. in favor of peace, stability and prosperity in Kosova. The success of the last elections in Kosova is no doubt a demonstration of the maturity of the Albanians as much as a confirmation of the success of the international engagement there. To our view it indicates that, in spite of difficulties, and the long road that lies ahead, there is a clear perspective for a better future for all the inhabitants of Kosova. They should also be part and parcel in shaping this process. We expect the general elections due in Kosova in the course of the next year to reconfirm this. As Mr. Bernard Kouchner is leaving his post, along with the farewell to him, I would like to express our appreciation for what he achieved during his mandate there, and wish him well for the future. My best wishes for good luck and success go to Mr. Hans Haekkerup who is succeeding Mr. Kouchner. During last year NATO confirmed itself once more as an irreplaceable element that guarantees the stability in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosova but also broader in the region. NATO's intervention alongside with its presence prevented the spillover of the conflict and clearly produced stability. That is why our view is that NATO's presence will be needed in the region for a long time to come. This is a must, but it does not mean that we should put all of our expectations at NATO's presence. We should also ourselves be able to use this presence and assistance in order to generate more stability in our region. Full membership in both NATO and EU, has been and remains an absolute priority in the agenda of Albania's foreign policy.With regard to NATO the Membership Action Plan, this process is progressing constantly and we are fully aware of the work we should conduct in order to meet the criteria needed for membership. We are convinced that our membership, along with that of other nations in the region, will add to our efforts for a better future. Membership in EU will be as much needed if the region is to leave behind its bitter experiences. We are striving to get closer to the EU because we are an European country not only due to our historical and geographical location, but also due to our spiritual values. We know that this will be a long process that requires not only good will, but lots of energy and efforts. That's why we would appreciate the understanding and support of EU structures and its member nations. We strongly feel that a fully integrated Albania in the Association and Stabilization process into the EU is an irreplaceable contribution to the stability and security of South East Europe. Last but not least comes the element of cooperation and integration we should establish ourselves in the region in order to overcome the burdens of history. We should demonstrate that we are able together to become part of the Euro-Atlantic institutions. The Stability Pact for South East Europe provides a good opportunity in this respect, but it needs to maintain the pace of the momentum and enthusiasm with which it started. Thank You for your attention.