TIRANA, February 6 – Interior Minister Albana Koçiu met today with European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner during his regional visit.

Earlier today, the meeting highlighted the European Union’s continued support for the region’s integration process.

Minister Koçiu said Albania aims to complete the technical phase of European Union integration by 2027. She described the objective as achievable due to progress so far and close cooperation with European institutions.

At the same time, Koçiu stressed the need to continue reforms and fully apply European standards. She focused on security, migration, and the rule of law.

Meanwhile, the minister addressed the fight against organized crime. She noted the entry into force of the law on the Asset Recovery Office, the appointment of the unit’s director, and progress in staff selection. She also pointed to strengthened capacities and transparency in the Agency for the Administration of Seized and Confiscated Assets.

As a result, authorities seized 726 assets in 2025, with a value of about 65 million euros. Institutions allocated 12.2 million euros to the state budget, investigative bodies, and community projects.

In addition, Koçiu highlighted intensified cooperation between the State Police and the Special Anti-Corruption Structure. She said this cooperation led to 107 criminal proceedings in areas including narcotics, trafficking, economic crime, and corruption.

Later, the minister referred to the new ‘National Strategy Against Organized Crime’ for 2026–2030, which is in its final stage. She said the strategy strengthens financial investigations and cybercrime response.

On migration, Koçiu informed the commissioner about the implementation of the Migration Strategy 2024–2030. She also mentioned Albania’s observer status in the European Migration Network, amendments to the law on foreigners, and increased protection for unaccompanied minors.

At the same time, Albania approved the National Contingency Plan for Mixed Migration Flows for 2026–2028 and continued work on the Albanian Coordination Center for Integrated Border Management.

In conclusion, Koçiu reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to align further with the European Union visa policy. She said Albania remains a reliable and proactive partner of the European Union in security, stability, and integration.

/a.p./