TIRANA, Dec 31 /ATA/ Albania saw a year packed with important diplomatic activities and essential steps on its pathway towards European Union (EU) during 2024.
Albanian diplomacy has played a prominent role in strengthening international relations, promoting national interests, and consolidating its position on the regional and global stage.
The year 2024 marked significant achievements for Albania’s foreign policy, not only in terms of the opening of EU accession negotiations but also the strengthening of relations with strategic partners, increasing engagement in international organizations and multilateral forums, protecting the interests of Albanians worldwide through the modernization and efficiency of services for them, consolidating the country’s image as a factor of regional stability, and positioning Albania as a provider of opportunities for foreign investments and economic and trade exchanges.
In view of the need for more effective diplomacy and the expansion of diplomatic and consular efforts, Albania has enhanced its presence both in the region and beyond, including the establishment of new embassies in Kyiv and Baku, as well as consulates in Struga and Ulcinj. These are important steps in supporting Albanian citizens and furthering Albania’s interests globally.
Intergovernmental Conferences with the EU
One of the most significant achievements for Albania in 2024 was the progress made in the EU accession negotiations.
The First Intergovernmental Conference between Albania and the European Union was held in Brussels on July 19, 2024, marking the start of the negotiation process.
On October 15, Albania officially opened the “Fundamentals” cluster by holding the Second Intergovernmental Conference with the European Union, which included:
Chapter 23: Judiciary and Fundamental Rights, which addresses reforms in the judicial system, the protection of human rights, and the fight against corruption.
Chapter 24: Justice, Freedom, and Security, focusing on security issues, migration, and cooperation in the fight against organized crime.
This step reflects the Albanian government’s sustained efforts to implement key reforms and establish a solid framework for the rule of law.
Albania is the first among candidate countries to open accession negotiations under the revised enlargement methodology.
The first cluster covers fundamental reforms, paving the way for the start of negotiations on other clustters. Progress in these reforms will also help build the overall momentum for the negotiations.
On December 17, Albania also held its Third Intergovernmental Conference with the European Union, opening Cluster 6 on External Relations.
This cluster includes two chapters: Chapter 30 – External Relations and Chapter 31 – Foreign Policy, Security, and Defense Policy.
The Ambassador’s Conference, “Tirana Diplo 2024,” was held in Tirana.
From August 26 to 28, Tirana hosted the “Tirana Diplo 2024” Ambassador’s Conference, an annual event that brought together Albanian ambassadors and consuls from around the world.
Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, emphasized the importance of economic diplomacy, reforms in the diplomatic service, and priorities for European integration during this conference.
The Ambassador’s Conference made its return after eight year hiatus, with three days of discussions in Tirana focused on the challenges and opportunities of Albanian diplomacy, as well as the country’s strategies on security, regional geopolitics, economy, tourism, culture, and the top priority of European Union integration.
In addition, it touched on the challenges in foreign policy, as well as the importance of strengthening relations with the countries of the Western Balkans.
Support for Kosovo and regional stability
In 2024, Albania played an active role in supporting Kosovo’s international recognition and membership in international organizations.
In various meetings throughout the year, Albanian representatives emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach to regional security and stability in the Balkans.
In this context, on December 20, a joint plenary session was held in Pristina between the Parliaments of Albania and Kosovo.
During this session, the opening remarks were delivered by the speakers of the two parliaments, Elisa Spiropali and Glauk Konjufca.
The meeting was also greeted by President of the Republic of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, as well as by the two prime ministers, Edi Rama and Albin Kurti.
Furthermore, the heads of the parliamentary groups also addressed the session.
At the conclusion of the session, the members of parliament adopted a joint declaration between the Parliaments of Albania and Kosovo.
This joint meeting in Pristina followed the inaugural session held on November 27, 2022, in Tirana.
/gj.m/ /r.e/sm/
