Rama meets Erdogan in NY to discuss bilateral and regional issues
Prime Minister Edi Rama met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the sidelines of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly. The leaders discussed bilateral ties, regional issues, and global challenges during their closed-door meeting at Turkevi, Turkey’s diplomatic center in New York.
Why is this important
The meeting underscores Albania’s strategic ties with Turkey, a key regional player, and the relationship between the two leaders. Both countries continue to navigate complex regional dynamics while seeking to expand bilateral cooperation. Their discussions at the UN reflect a shared commitment to addressing regional and global issues, including stability in the Balkans and the broader Mediterranean region.
The meeting
Rama shared photos of the meeting on social media, showing both leaders and their delegations at the UN, where the “Summit for the Future” also took place. According to Turkey’s state news agency, Anadolu Agency, Erdogan emphasized the importance of further strengthening bilateral relations in all areas.
Albania-Turkey relations:
Albania and Turkey share strong diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. Turkey is one of Albania’s strategic partners and a key economic partner, with significant investments in infrastructure, energy, and healthcare. Both countries collaborate closely on security and military matters as NATO allies. The relationship is also bolstered by shared historical and cultural connections, with both nations emphasizing cooperation on regional stability.
Erdogan’s remarks on Israel
During the meeting, Erdogan also addressed ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly criticizing Israel’s actions in Palestinian territories. He condemned what he described as “massacres” in Gaza and called for an end to human rights violations and breaches of international law.
“These violations must end, and Israel will be forced to stop if all the world’s states act together in a peace-oriented manner,” Erdogan said, stressing the need for a unified global response.
Go deeper
SPAK concludes investigations against Sali Berisha in “Partizani” corruption case
Published on October 16, 2024
Why is this important: This marks the first time in Albania’s history that such high-level political figures have been targeted by the justice system. Berisha, a former president (1992–1997) and two-term prime minister (2005–2013), is accused of using his political power to benefit his son-in-law in the privatization of the Partizani sports complex. SPAK alleges that Berisha orchestrated legal changes during his time in office to favor Malltezi, leading to significant financial gains.
Albanian High Court rejects Democrat MP’s request to suspend prison sentence
Published on October 15, 2024
Why is it important: Salianji’s conviction stems from his role in a controversial case from 2018, where he accused the brother of former Interior Minister Fatmir Xhafaj, of involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy. The case drew widespread attention in Albania, as it involved allegations of political protection for criminals. However, investigations by the Prosecution revealed that the evidence had been fabricated with Salianji playing a key role in the affair. The High Court’s decision signals a continuation of Salianji’s legal struggles and further solidifies the judiciary’s stance on the case.
Albanian PM confident country will join EU by 2030 despite opposition criticism
Published on October 15, 2024
Why is it important: Albania has held EU candidate status for over a decade. Internal challenges within the country, as well as issues within the EU itself, have delayed the accession process for Albania, which is widely regarded as one of the most pro-European countries in the region. Securing EU membership would not only enhance Albania’s political standing but also reinforce legal reforms, democratic principles, and economic growth.