TIRANA, Nov 13 /ATA/ Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, stated on Wednesday that the draft budget of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs for 2025 amounts to 3.8 billion lek, which is the largest allocation ever for the foreign service. It supports the foreign service and engagement in regional initiatives and European Union programs.
During the presentation of the draft law “On the 2025 Budget” for the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs in the Foreign Policy Committee, Hasani stated that, “the year we are closing has marked significant progress in Albania’s foreign policy.”
“The opening of EU accession negotiations is a breakthrough that has had a profound impact on our country’s foreign service. During this year, we have strengthened relations with our strategic partners and increased our engagements in international organizations, safeguarding the interests of Albanians worldwide,” said Hasani.
These efforts, the minister stated, “have contributed to consolidating Albania’s image as a factor of stability, as well as a country with potential for foreign investment and economic development.”
To support these initiatives, he continued, “we have increased our diplomatic presence in the region and other countries by opening embassies in Kyiv and Baku, as well as General Consulates in Struga and Ulcinj.”
“These steps are important for supporting our citizens and advancing Albania’s interests on the global stage,” said Hasani.
The Albanian top diploamt stated that the upcoming year is expected to present other challenges for the foreign service.
“The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has drafted a budget of 3.8 billion lek. This is the largest budget ever allocated for the foreign service. This budget will finance important activities related to strengthening relations with the EU and strategic partners, engaging in regional initiatives, and enhancing economic and cultural diplomacy.”
He stated that some of the main objectives for 2025 include advancing the European integration process, with the aim of preparing for membership by 2030, through reforms in institutions and processes.
Another objective, Hasani said, “is active participation in regional initiatives, including the Berlin Process or the Growth Plan, to ensure the gradual integration of the region into the EU, but these mechanisms are strongly interconnected on the pathway to Brussels.”
“Preserving Albania’s profile in the field of multilateralism. Proactive engagement in international organizations such as membership in the UN Human Rights Council or in the Executive Board of UNESCO,” said Hasani.
Another key objective, said Hasani, is the deepening of relations with strategic partners such as the USA, the UK, the EU, Italy, Greece, Turkey, and many other countries to strengthen cooperation in the fields of security and economic development.
Another objective is the strengthening of economic diplomacy, with a focus on increasing trade exchanges and attracting foreign investments in order to stimulate economic development.
The enhancement of the role of the Albanian diaspora as an asset for the country’s development, by strengthening ties with Albanian communities abroad, is another key objective of the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs (MEPJ).
Improving services for citizens through digital platforms, modernizing online consular services, and the E-Visa service, which will improve access to services and ensure the protection of the interests of Albanian citizens abroad.
Undoubtedly, another objective, emphasized Hasani, is support for Kosovo in its international recognition process and strengthening the cohesion of the Albanian factor in the region.
“The draft budget for the foreign service marks a significant increase, with an addition of 635 million lek, which is 20% more than the current year, 2024. This is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Albanian government to consolidate the role of diplomacy in serving the country’s interests and fulfilling the goals of foreign policy,” said Hasani.
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