Rama: Decision on the "sea issue" expected in 2026

2026-04-25 09:14:00, Aktualitet CNA

The Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, believes that the decision to define the Exclusive Economic Zone between Greece and Albania in the maritime areas will be made within 2026.

Albanian-Greek relations, the sea issue and property rights were at the center of Prime Minister Edi Rama's discussion during a conversation with the director of the newspaper "Kathimerini", Alexis Papachelas, within the framework of the XI Delphi Economic Forum.

Referring to the so-called "sea issue", which is related to the definition of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) between Albania and Greece, Rama expressed optimism that a decision will be made within 2026. He stressed that the parties have agreed to turn to the International Court of Justice for a final decision.

"The decision is expected within the year and we hope that by next fall we will have a full agreement on all issues," Rama declared, adding that it is imperative that the remaining problems between the two countries be resolved once and for all.

Bilateral relations and open issues

The Albanian Prime Minister acknowledged that the Fredi Beleri issue had created tensions in bilateral relations, but underlined that there is mutual respect between him and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. According to Rama, contacts between the two countries continue, even at the level of Foreign Ministers.

However, Rama stressed that "there are no bilateral issues" between the two countries and expressed appreciation for Greece, describing the relationship as positive and important. "I have great admiration for this country. I have spent many days here and every time I come I feel like I am in love with Greece. How can I be hostile?" Rama said.

Property and the Greek minority

Regarding property rights, Rama described this as a general Albanian problem and not specific to Greek minority areas. He emphasized that after the change of system, overlapping properties remains a challenge, while the digitalization process is continuing to address this issue.

At the same time, Rama called the Greek minority in Albania a "cultural treasure", also praising the commitment of Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis to this community. "I want to appreciate Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who is persistent on this issue. He fights for his people, and I tell my people that we must show how much we value this relationship," Rama said.

Regional economy and politics

Speaking about Albania's overall performance and economic development, Rama said that Albania aims to become a regional energy hub, with the support of the US and in cooperation with Greece.

In the geopolitical aspect, Rama recalled Albania's role as a member of NATO and expressed optimism about the future of the Western Balkans, emphasizing that the region has not been forgotten and that it is closer than ever to integration into the European Union.

MIGRATION

Rama also spoke about the phenomenon of emigration, noting that "Albanians continue to leave. This is natural for a country that has gone through 50 years of isolation." But according to him, it is also noticeable that more and more Albanians are returning to the country, while the formal economy is expanding.

He also confirmed cooperation with Italy on migration issues, emphasizing that Albania responds positively to requests in this regard.

Regarding foreign communities, Rama underlined Albania's tradition of hospitality, mentioning the sheltering of Jews during World War II, as well as Afghans and Iranians more recently./ DW