TIRANA, Feb 6 /ATA/ Minister of Interior, Albana Koçiu, hosted on Friday European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, as part of a regional tour of visits.
The Commissioner’s visit is a testimony to the European Union’s strong commitment to supporting the countries of the region in their integration journey.
Minister Koçiu reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to completing the technical integration process with the EU by 2027, stating that this goal is within reach due to the progress achieved so far and the strong cooperation with EU institutions. She emphasized that achieving this target requires continued reforms and full adherence to European standards, particularly in the areas of security, migration, and the rule of law.
The minister further acknowledged the ongoing support of the European Commission, especially in the fields of security, migration, and the integration process, and reiterated Albania’s unwavering commitment to meeting its obligations under Chapter 24.
The discussion also focused on the fight against organized crime, with the minister highlighting the approval and implementation of the Asset Recovery Office (ARO) law, the appointment of the Unit’s Director, the progress in staff selection procedures, and the strengthening of capacity and transparency within the Agency for the Administration of Seized and Confiscated Assets (AAASCA). In 2025 alone, 726 assets worth approximately 65 million euros were seized, while 12.2 million euros were allocated to the state budget, supporting investigative institutions and community projects.
The minister emphasized the enhanced cooperation between the State Police and the Special Prosecution Against Corruption (SPAK), which, in the past year, led to the initiation of 107 criminal proceedings in the areas of narcotics, trafficking, economic crimes, and corruption, producing concrete results in dismantling criminal networks.
She emphasized that the new 2026-2030 Strategy Against Organized Crime is in its finalization phase and is expected to strengthen the “follow the money” principle, as well as enhance capabilities for investigating cybercrime. In the areas of drug control and financial crime, Albania has adopted 21 bylaws and established the National Early Warning System and the National Drug Observatory, in close cooperation with the EU Drugs Agency.
With regard to migration and border management, Koçiu informed about the implementation of the 2024-2030 Migration Strategy, Albania’s accession as an observer to the European Migration Network, amendments to the law on foreigners, the enhancement of capacities for the protection of unaccompanied minors, and the adoption of the National Contingency Plan for Mixed Migration Flows 2026-2028. Furthermore, the process of operationalizing the Albanian Center for Integrated Border Management Coordination is underway.
The Minister of Interior briefed the Commissioner on the further alignment with the EU visa policy, including the removal of the visa regime for certain countries, as well as the adoption of a roadmap for full harmonization with third countries. In conclusion, Koçiu reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to remain a reliable and proactive partner of the European Union, dedicated to strengthening security, stability, and the country’s European integration.
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