TIRANA, Sept 8 /ATA/ The three-day conference of Albanian ambassadors worldwide, Diplo 2025, commenced on Monday in Tirana under the theme “Albania 2030: In Europe, Connected to the World.”
During this conference, the guest of honor, Constantinos Kombos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, also delivered a welcoming address.
Kombos commended Albania’s progress in its pursuit of European Union membership, underscoring that the culmination of this process is imminent. He further stressed the necessity for Albania to persistently step up its efforts to ensure continued progress.
“Albania’s advancement in the realm of international diplomacy is evident to all. As a result, its credibility has significantly increased. It is, in my view, essential to recognize and commend those who have contributed to these achievements,” remarked the Cypriot Foreign Minister.
“I will focus on European integration, the enlargement process, and our upcoming presidency, as well as how these elements are structured. Every conference of this nature provides an opportunity for participants—and for the organizers’ expectations—to lay the groundwork for coordination, take stock of the current situation, and set objectives,” he continued.
“In your case, it is clear that the main objective is focused on European Union integration. Albania deserves praise for the rapid progress made across many chapters of its European journey. This path has been extended, and its completion is near—marking the start of a new chapter. However, there is still significant work ahead, and increasing efforts remains the best way to move forward,” stated Kombos.
Kombos expressed Cyprus’s support for Albania’s membership in the EU.
“In this process, rest assured that Cyprus will stand by your country as a constructive and helpful facilitator for all the efforts you undertake to achieve this ultimate goal,” stated Kombos.
The Cypriot Foreign Minister also highlighted the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
“Beyond the European Union context, there is an important bilateral aspect. As a representative of a friendly nation, I am personally committed to expanding the breadth of cooperation between our two countries. The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs is the first Albanian official to visit our country, while my visit is the first in 13 years. I consider this a very positive indication, highlighting both the tasks ahead and our mutual determination to explore all opportunities to strengthen our bilateral relations,” stated Kombos.
“Member states, candidate countries, and all those interested in joining the EU share the same vision, and this vision must be verified. It concerns the embrace of the Union’s values. It involves being aligned with the rules of the European Union. This commitment is the primary duty in the accession process. It creates opportunities but also comes with responsibilities,” stated Kombos.
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