Morocco to Finalize Short-Term Visa Waiver Procedures for Albanians Soon
The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Igli Hasani has begun an official visit to Morocco, where he was welcomed by his counterpart, Nasser Bourita. This meeting, marking the 63rd anniversary of diplomatic relations, confirmed the shared commitment to further deepen and strengthen bilateral cooperation in key areas, including politics, economy, and culture.
During the discussions, the two ministers praised the strong relations between Albania and Morocco and reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing economic, trade, and cultural cooperation. Albania acknowledged Morocco’s significant reforms under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, as well as its efforts in political, economic, and social development, particularly within the framework of Morocco’s New Development Model.
Minister Bourita recognized Albania’s contribution to peace and stability in the Western Balkans and commended its efforts to promote good neighborly relations. He highlighted Albania’s progress in the EU accession process and reaffirmed Morocco’s support for Albania’s European integration aspirations and the comprehensive reforms undertaken by the Albanian government in this regard.
During the meeting, a Joint Declaration was signed, reaffirming Morocco’s role as a pillar of stability and development in Africa. The declaration also emphasized the strategic importance of Western Sahara and the Sahel region, stressing the need for peace, security, and economic development as key factors for regional and global stability.
In this context, Albania acknowledged the significance of the Western Sahara issue for Morocco and praised Morocco’s serious and credible efforts within the framework of the United Nations to find a mutually acceptable solution. Albania considers Morocco’s 2007 autonomy initiative as a serious and credible basis for resolving this regional issue.
The ministers also agreed on concrete steps to enhance economic and sectoral cooperation by promoting agreements in renewable energy, tourism, and food security.
As part of these efforts, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the diplomatic academies of both countries to strengthen cooperation in training and capacity development for future diplomats.
Another significant achievement was the decision to organize a Business Forum by the end of the year, creating new investment opportunities.
In a key move to facilitate mobility, boost trade exchanges, and promote tourism, Morocco announced it will finalize very soon the removal of short-term visa requirements for Albanian citizens. This decision will ease people-to-people contacts and strengthen ties between the two nations.
Additionally, Morocco’s Foreign Minister confirmed that he will visit Tirana before the end of the year, reaffirming the commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
“This declaration serves as a foundation for a roadmap that will guide our future cooperation,” concluded the ministers, expressing confidence that this new dynamic will bring tangible benefits to both countries.
