Albania’s prime minister, Edi Rama, has declared that Kosovo’s independence is an irreversible fact and that Serbia must accept its reality as an independent state.

During his speech at the Peace Forum, which is being held at Musée de lʹHomme in Paris, Rama stopped at Albania’s role in preserving peace and stability in the region, as well as in relations with neighbouring countries, including Serbia.

He said Albania has been a peaceful country and that over the past decade it has been active in efforts to promote peace in the region.

Speaking of reports with neighbours, Rama stressed that, despite differences and historical circumstances, it is important that countries in the region build good relations.

However, when he spoke about Kosovo, the Albanian prime minister was firm in his stance, stressing that its independence cannot be undone and that it cannot be treated as a Serbia’s claim or fantasy.

As regards the issue of Albania and Kosovo remains a question. Kosovo is an independent state, recognised by many countries and there is no turning back, and there is no way to turn it into a Serbian fantasy. The sooner Serbs see it as a fact, they will not be included by this ghost, Rama said.

He also spoke of the concept of freedom, remembering that at the age of 26, he had to fight to have the opportunity to travel and see the world.

I understand freedom as the feeling of coming here and talking to you. At my 26-year-old age I had to fight to see the world. So I define freedom, which I can say whatever I want, to go when I want, Rama said.

Finally, he reiterated the importance of good neighbourlyity, stressing that countries cannot choose their neighbours, but may choose the way they build relations with them.