Exclusive / EU “recognizes” Cham case

Commissioner Johannes Hahn underlined that the maritime border issue, different from what was declared by the Greek Ambassador to Tirana, is recognized by the European Commission as an unresolved matter between both countries.

Commissioner Hahn mentioned the mutual mechanism for addressing historic matters between both countries, part of the Bushati-Kotzias package, in which the Commission recognizes the Cham Case.

Top Channel has secured the answer that Johanes Hahn returned to the Greek European MP, Maria Spyraki, regarding what she calls “irredentist claims of Albania” by mentioning a series of events that took place before and during the visit of Minister Kotzias in Tirana.

The Greek EMP starts with the declaration of PM Rama at the Convention of the Party for Justice, Unity and Integrity, and the protest held during the visit of the Greek Foreign Minister to Tirana. The European MP addressed these questions to Commissioner Hahn:

“Does the Commission consider the actions of PJIU as based on good neighboring, since this is a precondition for Albania’s accession? Will these events be taken in consideration  for Albania’s progress report?”, the European MP asked.

The answer of Commissioner Hahn was very clear:

“The Commission noted that the frequency of high-level meetings between the two countries has increased. The diplomatic relations between the two countries have intensified and the political dialogue has improved. The Commission welcomed the fact that both countries are discussing the creation of a joint mechanism, which will organize periodic meetings for discussing the suspended matters. This includes the definition of the continental shelf and Albanian-Greek maritime areas, minority rights and the Cham case. The Commission has congratulated both countries for this effort, by expressing our gratitude for renewing this important mutual diplomatic commitment”, Commissioner Hahn declared.

Top Channel