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TIRANA, Oct. 26-- Albanian President Ilir Meta and his visiting counterpart of North Macedonia Stevo Pendarovski agreed here on Saturday that European Union (EU) integration is the only alternative for the region. The remarks came as Meta held talks with Pendarovski at the Palace of Brigades in Tirana. The two presidents held a joint press conference after the meeting with their delegations. "The lack of consensus on the start of accession talks with the EU for both our two countries on Oct. 18 should not discourage us. On the contrary, it should promote the continuation of reforms with tangible results for the citizens of our countries," Meta said. The visit of Pendarovski to Albania will give a new dimension to the relations between the two countries, Meta underlined. According to Meta, Pendarovki's election as president of North Macedonia has given another dimension to the interethnic relations in North Macedonia, contributing to the strengthening of coexistence and trust there, as well as to the further strengthening of the neighborly relations between the two countries. Meta expressed Albania's support for the full membership of North Macedonia to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and called it an "added value for the Alliance and the entire region that needs to further strengthen its security parameters." Meta assured Pendarovski about his dedication to increase efforts for the integration of the North Macedonian minority into the country, saying that Albania will make all the necessary commitments to further maintain and strengthen their national and cultural identity. | 
