Albania is all set to open up its Embassy in New Delhi soon in reciprocation to India’s plans to establish a mission in Tirana.
Speaking to media persons in New Delhi, the visiting Foreign Minister, Igli Hasani, highlighted Albania’s strategic significance as a crucial nexus between Europe and Asia. Advocating for closer trade ties between Albania and India, he emphasized the importance of fostering mutually beneficial relationships amid evolving global dynamics. The minister is in New Delhi to participate in the ongoing Raisina Dialogue.
“I am pleased to learn of the Indian government’s plans to open representation in Tirana, and we also intend to open an Embassy soon in New Delhi,” Hasani remarked, highlighting the mutual commitment to deepen diplomatic ties between the two nations.
His visit to Delhi coincided with the state visit of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to India, providing an additional platform to advocate for enhanced economic cooperation and connectivity projects between India and the European continent.
With approximately 500 kilometers of coastline, Albania shares a border with Greece and is strategically positioned to contribute to and benefit from emerging connectivity projects bridging India and Europe.
“Albania stands at the crossroads between the European Union and the East, participating in corridors linking India with the European Union,” Hasani stated, emphasizing Albania’s rapidly growing economy and the robust tourism sector as key drivers of its economic growth.
He highlighted Albania’s role as a major tourist destination, with over 10 million tourists visiting the country in 2023 alone. Stressing the need to sustain and enhance the momentum in Albania-India relations, the visiting minister talked about the shared cultural heritage and common values between the two nations.
“Albania and India share many commonalities, including a deep admiration for Mother Teresa. We are committed to deepening and strengthening our relationship, particularly in economic ties, which hold immense potential for collaboration and mutual benefit,” Hasani expressed, underlining the importance of creating conducive mechanisms to facilitate cooperation.
He underscored Albania’s significant role in facilitating trade routes between India and the European Union, citing its emergence as one of Europe’s fastest-growing economies and a key player in regional connectivity initiatives.
Meanwhile, Albania’s representation in India is currently led by architect Dikshu Kukreja, who was appointed as the Honorary Consul General of Albania last year. Kukreja highlighted the linguistic connection between Albanian and Sanskrit, underscoring the deep-rooted cultural, linguistic, and historical ties between the two nations.