“Countries like Albania and Montenegro should join the European Union as soon as possible, as the security they provide is vital for the bloc” that is the statement issued by one of Europe’s top security experts, Benedikt Franke, Executive Director of the Munich Security Conference.

In an exclusive interview with Albanian Public Television, Franke stressed the need for more communication between the EU and aspiring member states.

“Albania and Montenegro deserve great praise, and their political leadership has earned recognition. But it’s still not enough. These countries must express more clearly why joining the EU is also in Europe’s interest. Many understand it, but not enough. The region has so much to offer—highly educated, capable people ready to contribute. Unfortunately, outdated perceptions of crime and instability persist. We know a lot is being done, but it’s not being communicated effectively,” said Franke.

He encouraged using every platform to increase exchange and cooperation, highlighting Albania’s role at the Munich Security Conference.

“Years ago, I might have questioned the value of a small summit in a Montenegrin marina—but my view has changed. We don’t speak or meet enough. We live in our own bubbles. Every summit, big or small, matters. These gatherings must be used. I take this chance to again invite the Albanian and Montenegrin governments to use the Munich Security Conference. Edi Rama is a welcome guest, and we’d love to see him and his ministers more often. We want deeper exchanges with key regional players,” he said.

Franke concluded that both sides need each other more than ever, the EU needs what the Western Balkans offer, and the region urgently needs full European integration.