The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, received the new Ambassador of the United States of America to Albania, Eric Wendt, at the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, for their first meeting.

Minister Hoxha highlighted the close relations between Albania and the United States, emphasizing that the United States remains one of Albania’s closest and most valued strategic partners.

The relationship between the two countries is rooted in shared democratic values, a strong security partnership within NATO, and a longstanding friendship between the peoples of Albania and the United States. In this context, Minister Hoxha underlined that the role of the United States at key and defining moments in Albania’s history has left an indelible mark and remains a strong foundation for the strategic partnership between the two countries, which continues to grow stronger and deepen.

During the meeting, Minister Hoxha expressed his commitment to working closely with Ambassador Wendt to further strengthen bilateral relations, including by expanding economic and investment opportunities, enhancing cooperation on regional security and stability, and addressing global challenges that require close coordination among allies.

Minister Hoxha also emphasized that, for Albania, membership in the European Union, as the country’s foremost national priority, and a strong and enduring transatlantic partnership are two sides of the same coin.

Albania remains fully committed to further strengthening its strategic partnership with the United States and its transatlantic ties in the years ahead.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Minister Hoxha wished Ambassador Wendt every success in his mission in Albania, expressing his expectation for close, productive, and lasting cooperation.