US Ambassador Yuri Kim meeting with Prime Minister Rama

Illustrative photo

19:22 12/12/2022

In the official announcement of the American Embassy in Tirana, it is known that the meeting was held to review the achievement in the US-Albania relationship during 2022 and to discuss ways to continue strengthening the cooperation between the countries.

The announcement states that Ambassador Kim and Prime Minister Rama discussed ways to further build on the historic achievements in US-Albania defense relations, including Albania’s growing military capabilities and contributions as a NATO ally. The ambassador reaffirmed Albania’s strong support in the face of Iran’s cyber attacks.

The announcement of the American embassy in Tirana:

“Ambassador Kim met with Prime Minister Rama on December 12 to review achievements in the US-Albania relationship during 2022 and to discuss ways to continue strengthening our cooperation in the areas of democracy, defense and business during 2023.

Ambassador Kim expressed the United States’ appreciation for Albania’s leadership and important contributions during its first year in the United Nations Security Council. Albania’s role in KSKB has been of critical importance for important global issues, including supporting Ukraine in the face of invasion by Russia.

Ambassador Kim recognized Albania’s contributions to regional integration and stability, including during Albania’s calls for self-restraint in northern Kosovo. The United States and Albania have condemned all attacks against Kosovo and international security agencies as well as threats of violence and intimidation, and expressed full support for KFOR and EULEX. The United States and Albania have encouraged the parties to work within the framework of the EU-facilitated Dialogue to resolve issues of concern.

They discussed ways to further build on the historic achievements in the US-Albania defense relationship, including Albania’s growing military capabilities and contributions as a NATO ally. The ambassador reaffirmed Albania’s strong support in the face of Iran’s cyber attacks.

Ambassador Kim conveyed warm congratulations to the Prime Minister for the successful hosting of the historic EU-Western Balkans Summit in Tirana, noting that it is the first time that such a summit has been held outside Brussels. She reiterated that the United States firmly supports the full integration of Albania as a member of the EU. In this context, they discussed the achievements, as well as the challenges, in the implementation of the justice reform in Albania. They agreed that it is critical that Albania’s justice institutions be independent and courageous in exercising their duties and responsibilities.

Ambassador Kim and Prime Minister Rama affirmed that, as we close out the year that marks 100 years since the initial establishment of US-Albania relations, our partnership is stronger than ever.”