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| Lord David Cameron and Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama in the latter's office - at the Prime Minister's office, May 22, 2024, source: Rama's profile on Facebook |
In a joint press conference with the UK's Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs, Lord David Cameron, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that the United Kingdom is prepared to contribute funding and expertise for the construction of the Durrës-Pristina railway. This strategic railway is expected to significantly enhance transportation capacity not only between Albania and Kosovo but also across the region and beyond.
Durrës-Pristina Railway: A Strategic Project
Prime Minister Rama emphasized that the Durrës-Pristina railway project is a key element in boosting transport and economic development in the region. "In our bilateral cooperation plans, I want to highlight that we have discussed the UK's involvement in a strategic project of particular importance for Albania, Kosovo, and the region, which is the Durrës-Pristina railway," Rama stated. This project aims to improve infrastructure and connectivity between the two countries, opening new avenues for trade and transportation.
Rama also announced that an international tender for the new commercial port of Durrës would soon be launched and that a final response from NATO regarding the military wing of this port is awaited. Meanwhile, Kosovo plans to construct a Dry Port in Pristina, complementing and supporting this infrastructural development.
Combatting Illegal Human Trafficking
During the conference, Prime Minister Rama and Foreign Secretary Cameron also discussed their joint program to combat illegal human trafficking. "We have also talked about the joint program to fight illegal human trafficking and are pleased with the results achieved, but the operation will continue," Rama said. This collaboration aims to address one of the most significant security and human rights challenges in the region.
UK Support for Regional Development
Secretary Cameron expressed his support for the efforts of Albania and Kosovo in tackling important issues such as migration and economic development. "Migration is a problem for all of Europe. You have shown that you are innovative and creative, and you are working on these partnerships. Your economy has grown, the tourism sector has grown," Cameron stated. He praised Albania's efforts to create new opportunities and contribute to the stability and development of the Western Balkans region.
The Durrës-Pristina railway project, support for combatting illegal trafficking, and new trade and military partnerships with the United Kingdom represent a significant step towards a more connected and developed future for Albania, Kosovo, and the region as a whole. This initiative is a clear example of the UK's ongoing commitment to supporting transformative processes and economic development in the Western Balkans.