Speaking at the Inter‑Parliamentary Conference on the EU’s enlargement agenda and Albania’s accession, EU Ambassador Sofia Moreira de Sousa said meetings between MPs from member states and candidate countries enable the exchange of experience, knowledge and working practices.

EU Ambassador said parliamentary diplomacy can make a distinct contribution, noting that today’s conference itself is an example of that role. She underlined that Europe’s security environment has changed, with the war in Ukraine demonstrating that peace and stability can no longer be taken for granted.

EU Ambassador Sofia Moreira de Sousa warned that Europe faces hybrid and cyber threats, foreign information manipulation, organised crime, irregular migration and economic vulnerabilities. In this environment, she said, enlargement is not only a political process to transform candidate countries but also a strategic investment in Europe’s security, stability and resilience for the future.

EU Ambassador stressed that a stronger Union means a safer Europe, while a stable and prosperous Western Balkans contributes directly to that objective. On Albania, she noted the country has made its strategic European choice, with its foreign and security policy aligned to that of the EU.

EU Ambassador highlighted the importance of regional cooperation for the Western Balkans’ European perspective, pointing to stronger economic ties, greater opportunities for citizens and youth, and the need to address political differences through dialogue and collaboration.

Shw noted Albania’s objective of closing accession negotiations by 2027, describing the ambition as demanding and requiring sustained political commitment, durable reforms and effective implementation across all chapters. She underlined that the European Union will remain Albania’s main supporter in this process, while the credibility of the membership goal will depend on tangible achievements.

EU Ambassador urged Albania to maintain focus on core priorities and citizen‑centred results, noting that the European path has already brought change and must continue so reforms deliver tangible benefits. She emphasised that the destination goes beyond membership in an organisation, representing a Europe that is more united, secure, prosperous and resilient to future threats, alongside an Albania ready to contribute fully to the Union.

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