In a social media post, Hoxha said the talent, creativity, energy and determination of young people were essential to building a stronger, more prosperous and increasingly European Albania.

“Young people are not simply beneficiaries of progress, but active contributors and co-creators of a more democratic, dynamic and forward-looking society,” he said.

Hoxha highlighted the “EU and You – Europe Starts at Home” initiative, which has brought together young people across Albania for discussions on their aspirations, ambitions and concerns. The initiative will resume after the summer break and expand to other cities, he said.

He also pointed to a new merit-based recruitment process for Albania’s foreign service, aimed at attracting top professionals and investing in competence, professionalism and excellence.

As Albania advances towards EU membership, Hoxha said, young people would play an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s future, adding that integration was about more than institutions, legislation and negotiations.

“Europe is not simply the destination we seek to reach. Above all, it is the standard we must build at home, every day,” Hoxha said.

“Their future is Albania’s future. Their future is Europe’s future,” he added.

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