Prime Minister Edi Rama conducted an interview for the French television 'France 24', where he clarified once again that the relations with Greece are strategic, and that the blockade of the neighbouring country for the integration of Albania in the EU will not last long. 

Asked about the issue of the elected mayor of Himara, Fredi Beleri, Rama said that it is a matter of justice. 

According to him, that issue is no longer an issue of the Greek minority, considering the fact that both candidates in Himara were Albanians of Greek origin. 

An excerpt from the interview: 

- Mr. Rama, your Albania has problems to join the European Club. Greece is blocking the letter of 27 member countries for the opening of chapters. In May of this year, the candidate for the Municipality of Himara, an Albanian of Greek origin, Fredi Beleri, who ran for the opposition, was arrested two days before the elections on suspicion of vote buying. But you are accused of preventing him from being elected mayor to keep permits under control in this developing coastal area. How do you answer? 

Prime Minister Edi Rama: I don't want to get into this controversy. I honestly do not believe that this blockage will last, because it would not be serious. On the other hand, it is only a matter of justice. If you look at the progress report, Albania is rated really well on justice reform issues. I am very pleased because Albania is the most advanced country in the entire Balkans for these issues. 

- However, in your country there is also the Greek minority, approximately 1% of the population. Do you hope to reconcile with Greece? 

Prime Minister Edi Rama: Listen, we have strategic relations with Athens, and on the other hand, when you talk about the Greek minority, I want to clarify, as you said, the candidate was an Albanian of Greek origin, and his opponent in the election was also an Albanian of Greek origin. Then this cannot be an issue of the Greek minority!