TIRANA, Sept 8 /ATA/ Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, stated in his remarks at the “Diplo 2025” conference of Albanian ambassadors worldwide that a new draft law for the transformation of the diplomatic network will be submitted to Parliament in the coming days.
The Minister stated that this marks the initial phase of a comprehensive reform package designed to bring foreign service up to speed with current realities.
Albania is expanding its diplomatic network, opening seven new missions in one year to reach 60 total. The goal is to transform consulates and embassies into service hubs for citizens and businesses, while promoting economic growth and culture. Consular services are being modernized for greater speed, transparency, and accessibility. Economic diplomacy is being strengthened to attract investment and innovation. Upcoming legislation will accelerate these reforms, marking the first step in aligning the foreign service with modern needs.
The Minister stated that Albania has clearly chosen its path.
“We stand firmly alongside our Euro-Atlantic allies, as members of NATO and as a country progressing hand in hand with the EU and the United States. We defend peace, the rule of law, and freedom. This is not a temporary stance but a historic mission that ensures the security and prosperity of the Albanian nation,” said Hasani.
“European integration is our strategic compass. Since last October, we have opened four clusters, and within the coming weeks, we will open the final two, with one scheduled for next week,” the minister emphasized.
“This impressive pace is a testament to Albania’s commitment to progressing with credibility. Our goal is clear: to complete the technical negotiations by 2027 and achieve membership within this decade. However, we do not view integration merely as a technical process; it is a national project that impacts the judiciary, the economy, political culture, and the very functioning of our state,” stated Hasani.
The minister emphasized that “this process is coming to fruition, including progress in the European Union’s enlargement plan, increased investor confidence, and more opportunities for Albanian citizens.” He quoted the European Council President António Costa, who stated that enlargement is the most important geopolitical investment in European security. Albania is part of this investment, not only as a beneficiary but also as a contributor to security, stability, and innovation.
Undoubtedly, Hasani added, “security is the foundation upon which we build our Euro-Atlantic integration. As a NATO member, Albania actively contributes to collective security through participation in international missions, concrete support for Ukraine, and its commitment to hosting the NATO summit in 2027. These efforts demonstrate that we are a trustworthy partner, ready to assume responsibilities.”
At the same time, Hasani continued, “the modernization of the Armed Forces and investments in strategic infrastructure make Albania a more valuable ally within the alliance.
Hasani emphasized that modernizing Albania’s Armed Forces and investing in strategic infrastructure strengthen its role as a key NATO ally. He highlighted Albania’s ongoing commitment to regional stability in the Western Balkans, positioning the country as both a stabilizing force and a model for regional integration and cooperation.
Addressing Kosovo, Hasani affirmed, “Our commitment to Kosovo remains steadfast. A fully integrated Kosovo is essential for ensuring peace and fostering development in the region. Albania will continue to be a relentless champion of Kosovo’s accession to international organizations and its Euro-Atlantic aspirations.”
Hasani affirmed, “Likewise, Albanians in North Macedonia, Montenegro, and the Presevo Valley represent a vital force for peace and advancement. Albania acts as the bridge linking this force to the vision of a united and integrated European Balkans.”
The Minister also emphasized that the diaspora is an extraordinary asset.
“By strengthening our ties with them, we will not only increase Albania’s influence worldwide but also address the demographic challenges affecting all of Europe,” Hasani stated. /gj.m/j.p/sm/
