President Karis: The integration of Albania and other Western Balkan countries into the EU is an investment in peace for all of Europe

In a meeting with his Albanian counterpart Bajram Begaj in Kadriorg today, President Alar Karis stressed Estonia's strong support for the EU enlargement process, saying that Albania and the other Western Balkan countries are part of the European area of values. "The integration of the Western Balkans into the EU is not only a regional interest, but an investment in peace in Europe as a whole," he said.

Talks between the two heads of state focussed on the strategic importance of the Western Balkans to both the EU and NATO, particularly in light of the geopolitical upheavals taking place in Europe.

President Karis says Estonia is a vocal advocate of EU expansion, since it ensures a broader zone of security, stability and well-being. "We are more than willing to share our reform experience with the Western Balkan countries on their path to EU accession," he said.

The head of state also called for swift reforms to UN institutions so as to restore people's faith in the organisation and bolster the world order based on international law. "The UN Security Council needs to be reformed if we are to ensure greater accountability and transparency, as well as balance in the geographical representation of its member countries," he stated. "Guaranteeing international peace and security is the council's very reason for being, but instead of taking action, it has been crippled. We must also boost the role and responsibility of the UN General Assembly."

In their discussions, the two presidents touched on the current security situation and the need for continued robust support for Ukraine in resisting Russia's aggression. The Estonian head of state underscored the importance of Albania's actions during its time on the UN Security Council in championing the principles of international law and the sovereignty of Ukraine.

President Karis says the strength of the allied relations between Estonia and Albania is reflected in Albania's contribution to the defence of the Baltic region through its involvement in the NATO battle group in Latvia, which forms part of the alliance's enhanced forward presence.

The heads of state also discussed opportunities for closer cybersecurity and economic cooperation. During his visit to Estonia, President Begaj will learn about the activities of the e-Governance Academy and the CR14 Cyber Range cybersecurity training centre.

Following their discussions, Presidents Karis and Begaj visited the memorial to victims of communism in Maarjamäe.

President Bajram Begaj and his wife Armanda Begaj are on an official visit to Estonia on the invitation of President Karis. They will be in the country on 5 & 6 September.