“50 years of diplomatic relations Albania-Switzerland” was the topic of a scientific conference organized by foreign ministry in cooperation with the Swiss embassy in Tirana on Tuesday, said a press release issued by the press office of Albanian foreign ministry.
“This celebration is a sign of the importance of this anniversary for both countries and also proves the early ties between our peoples, based on human history and archival documents, which go beyond this half-century. It comes as a moment of reflection on what has been achieved and the continuation of future cooperation, “said deputy FM Sokol Dedja.
He thanked Switzerland for standing by Albania in difficult moments to cope with the severe consequences of the earthquake and pandemic, offering very generous contributions.
The event was greeted by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, Ignazzio Cassis, through video, who took the opportunity to made a presentation of the excellent relations between the two countries in several areas. He affirmed that Switzerland will continue to stand by Albania on its path towards European integration.
“On this anniversary I wish the continuation and increase of cooperation between the two countries,” he said.
The Swiss Ambassador to Albania, Ardian Maitre, based on the history of relations between the two countries said: “50 years ago our two countries signed formal bilateral diplomatic relations. This happened despite the Iron Curtain and the Cold War of that time, despite different political systems. This was a great achievement. In the 50 years that followed, our two countries have intensified exchanges. They have approached and are working closely together.”
The Director of the Historical Archive at the foreign ministry, Pranvera Dibra, and historian from the University of Bern, Dr. Zaugg, made a detailed presentation of the historical journey of 50 years of diplomatic relations seeing the perspective of the two countries.
The Director General of the Foreign Ministry, Mimoza Halimi emphasized the three main dimensions of cooperation with Switzerland: bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation. “What stands out in the approach of Switzerland to our country is its continuous assistance, materialized in the Strategic Documents and well-oriented projects, which not only strengthen the partnership between our countries, but also help in the realization of the reform agenda of the Albanian government and the path towards integration into the European Union.”/argumentum.al
