Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State
As Albania solemnly commemorates its Independence Day, we offer our deepest condolences for those who lost their lives in this week’s earthquake. Today, our prayers are with their families, as well as those injured. On behalf of the American people, we wish all of those affected a speedy recovery. Now, as in other difficult times, the United States stands with our friends in Albania.
Since the fall of Communism thirty years ago, Albania and the United States have developed an increasingly strong partnership. The United States firmly supports Albania’s path to European integration and commends Albania’s resolve in pursuing this goal. We applaud the Government of Albania’s efforts to implement necessary reforms, including those reforms aimed at strengthening an independent judiciary. We deeply appreciate Albania’s positive contributions to the NATO coalition, and welcome Albania’s leadership as the 2020 OSCE chair.
The U.S.-Albanian friendship stands as an enduring pillar of peace and stability, and we look forward to many more years of friendship and cooperation.