The Albanian Parliament unanimously approved a resolution supporting the territorial integrity of Ukraine on Monday evening.
In a session attended by Ukrainian ambassador Volodymyr Shkurov, MPs expressed their solidarity with Ukraine and denounced Russia’s invasion.
In addition to condemning Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine, and recognizing Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty, the resolution asks the government to increase efforts for Albania’s integration into the EU.
Opposition MP Petrit Vasili presented an amendment where it requested that Albania withdraw from the Open Balkan initiative and condemn Serbia’s refusal to enact sanctions against Russia. The amendment was not approved.
Over the last few years, Prime Minister Edi Rama has established close ties with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Together with North Macedonia, in 2019 they launched the Open Balkan initiative which was meant to create a free market area for the Western Balkan Six. The initiative has since stagnated as Kosovo, Bosnia, and Montenegro refuse to join.
While Serbia has yet to impose sanctions on Russia, last week Rama commended Serbia’s vote in the UN General Assembly “deploring” Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
