Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha says Albania aims to complete the technical phase of European Union accession negotiations by December 2027. The goal is to advance to the political phase and join the bloc within this decade.

Presenting the 2027 budget priorities to the parliamentary Committee on Europe and Foreign Affairs, Hoxha said the funding would strengthen the country’s international capacity and prepare its institutions and diplomatic service for membership.

Security in the Euro-Atlantic area will remain another priority. The minister said Albania would continue contributing to alliance missions, defence and intelligence cooperation, cybersecurity and efforts to counter hybrid threats, particularly disinformation.

Hoxha also pledged continued support for Kosova and stronger efforts to protect the rights of Albanians in Montenegro, the Presheva Valley and North Macedonia. Regional cooperation will include around 70 initiatives, including the Berlin Process.

The ministry also plans to deepen strategic partnerships, strengthen Albania’s role in international organisations and expand public, digital and cultural diplomacy. Economic diplomacy will focus on promoting exports, developing new economic ties and aligning diplomatic missions more closely with the country’s development needs.

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