U.S. Congressmen Visit Tirana





On Saturday, Embassy Tirana welcomed a bipartisan Congressional delegation led by Representative Gus Bilirakis of Florida, including Representative Jack Kingston of Georgia and Representative Gregory Meeks of New York.

In their meetings the Congressmen welcomed and praised the warm relationship between the United States and Albania, and expressed thanks for Albania's important efforts as a valued NATO Ally and friend of the United States. Albania has made important contributions to the coalition against ISIL, has strongly supported international law and the territorial integrity of Ukraine, and has helped significantly to bolster peace and stability in the Balkans region. 

During their meetings, the Representatives also explored energy issues and opportunities to expand commercial ties between the United States and Albania, and discussed the situation of Albania's ethnic minorities. The Congressional delegation congratulated Albania on the very successful visit of Pope Francis, and expressed their individual respect and admiration for Albania's history of religious cooperation and tolerance.

The Congressmen visited Tirana as part of a regional trip, and met with Deputy Prime Minister Peleshi, Deputy Energy Minister Bejtja, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Vangjel Dule, and representatives of Albania's interfaith religious communities.