1. On the sidelines of the OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) Summit in 
Astana, Kazakhstan, on December 1-2, Foreign Minister Kim Sung-Hwan met with his Albanian 
counterpart Edmond Haxhinasto on December 1 to discuss matters of mutual concern, including 
outstanding issues between the two countries; the current situation on the Korean peninsula; and 
ways to work together on the international stage.

2. Minister Kim requested the Albanian side’s cooperation regarding North Korea’s artillery provocation 
on Yeonpyeong Island. In response, Minister Haxhinasto expressed intention to cooperate closely with 
the Korean government to maintain peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.

3. Noting with satisfaction steady development of friendly and cooperative ties between Korea and 
Albania since the forging of diplomatic relations in 1991, the two sides voiced expectation for the ties 
between the two countries, which mark the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year, to grow 
closer in a wide range of fields.

4. The two sides agreed to expand substantive economic cooperation through increased trade and 
investment; and to continue close cooperation on the international stage.

                          Spokesperson and Deputy Minister for Public Relations of MOFAT

* unofficial translation