Greek Foreign Minister begins Western Balkans tour in Serbia

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis is set to embark on a tour of the Western Balkans, commencing in Serbia on June 12. This diplomatic initiative aims to foster regional stability and advance the European perspective of the Western Balkan nations.

The tour's itinerary includes visits to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro on June 19. Subsequent visits to Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo are also planned and will be announced shortly. The initiative underscores Greece's commitment to the region's integration into the European Union.

This tour occurs in the wake of recent incidents in Albania, where a Greek citizen was injured. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern and engaged in diplomatic channels with Albanian authorities. While acknowledging a response from Albania regarding the investigation and accountability for the incident, Greece emphasizes the need for full adherence to the rule of law.

Greece also highlighted the importance of respecting the rights of the national Greek minority in Albania and the effective protection of environmental areas. Compliance with these standards is deemed essential for Albania's EU accession process. Gerapetritis is expected to visit Tirana soon as part of Greece's efforts to promote the European prospects of the Western Balkans.

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The Greek side underlines the need for full adherence and respect for the Rule of Law, including the protection of the rights of the national Greek minority, as well as the importance of effective protection of protected environmental areas within the framework of alignment with the European Acquis, compliance with which is a necessary prerequisite for Albania's accession process.