The Balkan countries are closely following the campaign for the November 5 elections, the result of which is being awaited with concern by many Europeans, due to the impact they may have on the future of NATO, Russia’s war in Ukraine, trade relations and the future of democracy on the continent
The US presidential candidates said that the fight against corruption and pressure from abroad will be the priority of their administrations in the Western Balkans, while the region aims for European integration. A spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign told VOA that she has consistently advocated for the advancement of democracy, the rule of law and the fight against corruption. “The fight against corruption is a core national security interest of the United States and one of the reasons why Vice President Harris is fully committed to advancing the Euro-Atlantic aspirations of the six countries of the Western Balkans. NATO and the European Union are based on shared democratic values, including strong, independent and accountable institutions”, says the spokesperson’s response, according to which “our values also protect and respect the rights of citizens and countries to freely express their national identity”.
Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to the Albanian-American community on the eve of the elections, Mrs. Harris emphasized the special ties between Americans and Albanians for more than a century, since the Peace Conference in Paris after the First World War.
“Until today, Albanian-Americans remember that it was the United States of America that got involved in that decisive moment for Albania’s independence. I want to confirm the strong partnership between the United States and Albania. Albania is a stable NATO ally, and I appreciate Albania for promoting stability in the region, as well as for its leadership in the UN Security Council in the months following the start of Russia’s brutal aggression against Ukraine.” it says in the letter. “The United States has also led European allies and partners to support the independence and historic sovereignty of the Republic of Kosovo and continues to support a multi-ethnic, democratic Kosovo fully integrated into the international community,” Ms. Harris said in the letter.
Meanwhile, Christos Marafatsos, from former President Donald Trump’s campaign, told VOA that President Trump’s foreign policy towards the Western Balkans “would emphasize pragmatic, action-oriented partnerships focused on sustainability, economic opportunity and the fight against corruption.” .
According to Mr. Marafatsos, a White House led by Mr. Trump would not simply promote broad statements on democracy, but would produce real and accountable results by working directly with local leaders and citizens in the region. “President Trump understands that true peace comes from strong, self-sustaining nations. His administration would focus on strengthening the economy and security of the Balkan countries, enabling them to resist both corruption and external pressure. This means supporting strategic economic trade agreements and anti-corruption measures, not just in words, but through actionable partnerships, resource sharing and training that strengthen local institutions. “Moreover, his administration would prioritize individual freedoms and cut the red tape that hinders progress in these countries, helping to advance true democratic values by empowering citizens and local institutions,” he said.
Mr. Trump’s campaign criticized the foreign policy of President Joe Biden’s administration for inaction and lack of commitment to truly understand the region’s unique challenges. According to her, the lack of engagement has not only hindered economic progress, but has also made many Balkan countries feel neglected and undervalued as tensions simmer.
Mr. Trump’s campaign criticized the foreign policy of President Joe Biden’s administration for inaction and lack of commitment to truly understand the region’s unique challenges. According to her, the lack of engagement has not only hindered economic progress, but has also made many Balkan countries feel neglected and undervalued as tensions simmer.
“A Mr. Trump administration would bring a new and determined approach. President Trump would prioritize direct engagement, working closely with local leaders and stakeholders to address pressing issues in each of these nations. His administration would take active steps to prevent foreign influences from destabilizing the region, ensuring that the Balkans progress on a stable and prosperous path,” said Mr. Trump’s campaign response, which emphasized that “the style and his decisive commitment to building strong alliances based on mutual benefit and respect would stand in stark contrast to the passive policies of the current administration, giving hope to those who believe in a brighter future for the Balkans “.
The Balkan countries are closely following the campaign for the November 5 elections, the result of which is being awaited with concern by many Europeans, due to the impact they may have on the future of NATO, Russia’s war in Ukraine, trade relations and the future of democracy on the continent. (VOA)
