site.btaPM Borissov Meets with Albanian, Serbian Government Leaders

Sofia, December 7 (BTA) - Prime Minister Boyko Borissov met with the prime ministers of Albania and Serbia who are in Sofia for Thursday's conference launching the initiative in support of the European integration and infrastructure connectedness of the Western Balkans. The event is organized by the Bulgarian government and the World Bank.

On Wednesday, Borissov and Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama noted the excellent development of political relations and the potential for stronger trade and economic contacts between their countries.

Borissov said that during its stint at the EU Presidency, Sofia would support Tirana's efforts to join the EU. "We will continue working in close cooperation with your government so as to help the process of reform of various areas. Albania is capable of making the progress needed for a decision to start accession talks," he said.

The two concurred that regional cooperation is important for strengthening the region's stability and development. In this context, Corridor VIII, which will link the Adriatic and the Black Sea, is a priority.

Borissov thanked Rama for the inclusion of the Bulgarian minority in Albania's Law on the Protection of National Minorities, describing it as a manifestation of a European approach and political maturity.

The Albanian Prime Minister thanked Bulgaria for the relief aid sent to Tirana on Wednesday and Thursday for the areas affected by recent floods.

Meeting with Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabic on Thursday, Borissov said the development of infrastructure projects between the two countries would improve the connectedness of the entire region.

The two government leaders noted that the construction of a gas interconnector between Bulgaria and Serbia is a priority. They praised highly the progress made on projects of mutual interest such as a motorway between Sofia and Nis and the electrification of the railway line between Nis and the Bulgarian border. Borissov stressed that in just two days the two countries would sign a memorandum on reducing roaming charges.

He also said that during its EU Council Presidency in January-June 2018 Bulgaria would continue supporting Serbia's progress towards European integration.