This anniversary presents an excellent opportunity to discuss these 50 years and to shed more light into the history of development of these inter-governmental relations. 

To this end served also the visit of the Swiss Minister of Foreign Affairs Ignazio Cassis, who held meetings with the high officials in the country. 

“Half a century ago both our Governments decided that our two countries need to establish relations – in the midst of the Cold War and distrust of that time. 50 years on and we have gone from just having diplomatic relations, to having excellent relations, in diplomacy, humanitarian and development cooperation, economy, culture, sports and increasing people-to-people contacts, including tourism. 

Switzerland remains committed and determined to stand by Albania and support its efforts towards building effective democratic institutions and towards European integration. Let us also continue and strengthen our multilateral cooperation be it in the field of security or pandemics”, said the Swiss foreign minister. 

Swiss ambassador in Albania Adrian Maître, looking at the history of the relations between the two countries said: “50 years ago our two countries signed up for formal bilateral diplomatic relations. This happened despite the Iron Curtain and the Cold War of that time, despite the different political systems. I would say it’s a major achievement. In the 50 years since then, our two countries have been intensely exchanging, have come closer and are intensively cooperating”. 

The Swiss Confederation officially recognized Albania in 1922. Seven years later both parties signed the Convention on Establishing Trade Relations. 

Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP)

An idea born in Switzerland that boosts economic development in Albania and secures energy for Europe. Switzerland’s private sector, diplomacy and international cooperation played an essential role in bringing to life the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) that will supply gas from Azerbaijan to Europe through Greece, Albania, the Adriatic Sea and Italy. This massive project has strong support by the European Union and Albania benefits in several ways. 

Mimoza Halimi, General Director, Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs 

“Since the 70-ies when relations were officially established, developments between our countries have known only a positive trend, in the political, economic, social and cultural aspects” 

Hans Keller, First Swiss Ambassador for Albania:

“Economically, Albania is still a humble partner. But even so, this market, as small as it is, should not be neglected. The urge for better living conditions grows stronger year after year. Like everywhere else, Albania will not be stopped”. 

Foreign Swiss Minister Ignazio Cassis 

“Albania is and will continue to be a priority country for Switzerland. Switzerland encourages Albania to continue its reform efforts. These reforms are important for the Albanian people, they are important for the private sector, and of course they are important for the European integration”