On 24 February 2025, in Tirana, CEI Secretary General Franco Dal Mas, met with the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Igli Hasani.
The main topics of discussion were: the promotion of European integration, regional cooperation, the situation in Ukraine, sustainable development, and the strengthening of the CEI.
Dal Mas expressed his appreciation for the successful completion of the Albanian CEI Presidency in 2024, highlighting the country’s continued commitment, within the CEI framework, since its adhesion in 1996.
He recalled the CEI’s support to the EU accession process, particularly for the countries of the Western Balkans, with a special focus on Albania, which has recently made significant progress with the opening of negotiation chapters for EU membership.
Another crucial topic of the meeting was the pursuit of support for Ukraine, also by increasing cooperation with the CEI.
Secretary General Dal Mas stated that Ukraine, was a fundamental part of Europe, and that
“Peace cannot mean the surrender of Ukraine. It must be freedom, independence, and the restoration of international law.”
He also emphasised the importance of concrete initiatives within the CEI framework in the areas of connectivity and legal diplomacy.
Minister Hasani stated that Albania was strongly committed to the European integration process and to the strengthening of regional cooperation, and that it would continue to work alongside the CEI to promote peace, sustainable development, and stability. Hasani added that Albania was proud of the progress made in the EU accession negotiations but also stressed the importance of accelerating the accession process for all CEI-EU candidate countries. He also highlighted the importance of continuing to support Ukraine in this crucial moment.
The Secretary General concluded by emphasising that European integration and support to Ukraine were essential to ensure a secure and sustainable future for Europe. He also invited Minister Hasani to visit the CEI Executive Secretariat in Trieste to continue the dialogue and strengthen cooperation.
The CEI remains committed to working for a stronger, united, and prosperous region, based on shared values of peace, democracy, and sustainability. Albania, with its growing influence in the Balkans and commitment to regional cooperation, continues to be a crucial partner for the progress and stability of Southeast Europe.
For more info: arsova@cei.int
