A three-day meeting between Albanian Foreign Minister Ditmir Bushati and Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias commenced on November 11 in Crete, focusing on bilateral issues crucial for both countries. Key topics included everyday technical matters, the potential drafting of a new Maritime Agreement, the status of the Greek soldiers’ cemetery in Albania, and the longstanding law of war that has been in effect since 1940. This law particularly impacts the Cham community by freezing their property rights.
Both ministers reported a cooperative and constructive dialogue, with an official Albanian statement highlighting the importance of continued dialogue to resolve outstanding issues. The discussions allowed for substantial progress on multiple fronts. Importantly, they acknowledged the need to align their negotiations with European norms and values to benefit both nations and their citizens.
Of particular interest to Greece was the drafting of a new Maritime Agreement, rendered necessary after the previous agreement was declared void in 2009. Negotiations began from scratch, with reports indicating that the Greek side aimed to negotiate within the framework of international law, paving the way for a potentially swift implementation of a new deal.
While the cemetery issue for Greek soldiers, who died in Albania, was addressed—calling for burials in accordance with Greek traditions—the more contentious Cham issue was deferred to a future meeting, underscoring its sensitivity. This meeting did see discussions regarding educational materials, with Greece pushing for the removal of references to the Chameria region from Albanian textbooks to avoid negative historical connotations.
Bushati raised concerns regarding the law of war still in effect between the two nations, as it imposes restrictions on the property rights of Albanian citizens in Greece. Kotzias acknowledged this issue, indicating that it requires a legal resolution from the Greek Parliament, committing to address it soon.
In summary, the meeting marked significant steps toward resolving persistent bilateral issues while laying the groundwork for future cooperation. Another meeting is planned to continue these discussions, signifying ongoing engagement in addressing mutual concerns and improving relations between Albania and Greece.
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