TIRANA, Aug. 25 /ATA/ – Albania’s accession to the European Union remains the government’s top foreign policy priority and will require greater diplomatic engagement, Europe and Foreign Affairs Minister Ferit Hoxha said on Tuesday.
In a post on social media platform X, a day after a cabinet meeting in the south-eastern town of Pogradec, Hoxha said the meeting had provided an opportunity to assess priorities in detail and set clear objectives through the end of the year, including in foreign policy.
“The successful continuation of the EU accession process remains our primary objective and will require an increased pace, clear focus and full diplomatic commitment,” Hoxha said.
He said Albania would also step up efforts to strengthen regional cooperation, contributing to a Western Balkans that is “more stable, interconnected, sustainable and closer to Europe.”
Another priority will be to modernise and simplify consular services, making them faster, more accessible and more citizen-oriented, Hoxha said.
He also identified continued reform of the Foreign Service as a key focus, aimed at building a modern, professional and merit-based diplomatic service with a capable and agile corps committed to representing Albania, protecting national interests and creating greater added value for the country.
Hoxha said Albania’s diplomatic priorities also included strengthening the country’s international image and cultural and social profile, closer links with the economy and trade, more partnerships and opportunities, and delivering more tangible results for Albania and its citizens.
“European Albania also requires European diplomacy,” Hoxha said.
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