Albania's Anniversary

From the U.S.Department of State in Washington, D.C.:

Albania's National Day

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
November 26, 2010

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Albania as you celebrate your Independence Day on November 28. The history of friendship and shared interests between Albania and the United States was cemented at the 1919 Paris Peace Conference, where President Woodrow Wilson strongly supported Albania’s independence.

Since then, Albania has made many valuable contributions to promote peace and security in the Western Balkans. As a NATO partner and an advisor to other Balkan countries aspiring to join NATO, Albania plays a crucial and proactive role advancing regional integration and stability. The United States also honors Albania’s commitment to the ISAF mission in Afghanistan, and its dedication to protecting peace around the world.

Our support for Albania’s entrance to the European Union remains firm. The EU visa waiver Albania recently received is a strong indication of the progress your country continues to make toward full membership in the Euro-Atlantic community. I look forward to continuing our partnership with Albania on issues of regional and global importance as we work together toward a democratic, secure, and prosperous future for both our people.

I wish all the people of Albania a safe and happy Independence Day celebration.