President Begaj at Kyiv Summit, Meets Volodymyr Zelenskyy

President of the Republic Bajram Begaj took part in the Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit in Kyiv, as well as in ceremonies marking Ukraine’s Statehood Day.

He reaffirmed Albania’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, recovery and European integration.

“Albania has been clear and unwavering in its support for Ukraine. We stand firmly in support of your independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within your internationally recognised borders. We also support the achievement of a comprehensive, just and lasting peace that respects the United Nations Charter, international law and the legitimate rights of the Ukrainian people,” the Head of State said.

At the summit, President Begaj presented Albania’s three priorities: strengthening cooperation on security and addressing hybrid threats, supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction, and backing the European perspective of Ukraine and the Western Balkans.

In the presence of regional leaders and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, he called for support for Ukraine to be accompanied by concrete steps.

“Our support,” President Begaj stressed, “must go beyond declarations. It must be translated into practical cooperation. This is why today’s summit matters. It enables us to strengthen political coordination, deepen regional solidarity and identify concrete areas for joint action.”

The summit concluded with a joint declaration reaffirming the unity of Southeast European countries with Ukraine and recognising its security as part of the security of the entire continent.

During the Statehood Day ceremonies, President Begaj paid tribute to the resilience of the Ukrainian people.

“Today, we celebrate not only centuries of history, faith and identity, but also the indomitable spirit of a people who, generation after generation, have defended their homeland, culture and aspirations for freedom. Albania shares this pride with you and stands alongside your determination!” the President of the Republic said.

As part of the visit, Begaj also held a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The two leaders discussed strengthening international support for Ukraine, deepening bilateral cooperation in recovery, security and economic development, as well as the importance of new agreements, including one on International Road Transport.

President Begaj reaffirmed Albania’s full solidarity with Ukraine and its commitment to strengthening relations between the two countries.