Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha has responded to the debate sparked by the Serbian foreign minister’s remarks about the possible opening of a Serbian consulate in the northern Albanian city of Shkodër, stressing that Albania’s main priority remains the establishment of an Albanian Consulate General in the Preševo Valley.

According to Hoxha, Albania has long sought to establish a permanent consular presence in the Preševo Valley, while Serbia has submitted its request to open a Consulate General in Shkodër. He clarified that any steps will be taken only once both sides reach agreement on all aspects of the process.

The minister emphasized that reciprocity is a fundamental principle of diplomatic relations and should not be viewed as a mechanical equalization of the two countries’ interests or objectives.

“Albania’s goal and interest is to finally establish a permanent consular presence in the Preševo Valley, a long-overdue development in an area where a significant Albanian community lives. This will enable us to be closer to Albanian citizens, provide them with more direct support, and protect their legitimate interests,” Hoxha said.

He criticized reactions that, according to him, have focused on the possibility of opening a Serbian consulate in Shkodër while overlooking the benefits that an Albanian diplomatic mission in the Preševo Valley would bring to the Albanian community there.

In his statement, Hoxha underlined that Albania’s foreign policy is based on national interests, respect for international law and European values, rather than emotions or perceptions.

“This is our standard today, and it is also the standard Albania aims to uphold as a future member of the European Union. We are committed to reflecting this approach in every decision of our foreign policy,” the minister concluded.