Upgraded Greek-Albanian police pact

TIRANA (ANA-MPA) - Greece and Albania signed an upgraded law enforcement cooperation protocol on Friday, during the visit here by Citizen's Protection Minister Mihalis Chryssohoidis.

The agreement anticipates the creation of a database for joint use by the two sides, as well as increased exchange of information, organising of joint police operations, cross-border cooperation in combatting organised crime and the implementation of educational programmes.

Albanian Interior Minister Lulzim Basha, speaking during joint press conference, also thanked the Greek minister for Athens' support for Tirana's request to allow Albanian citizens visa-free travel to Schengen Pact countries.

On his part, Chryssohoidis expressed satisfaction over the level of cooperation between the two neighbours in the security sector.

Chryssohoidis was also received by Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha, followed by talks with Archbishop of Albania Anastasios and representatives of the ethnic Greek community in the country.