President Begaj Meets with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas
President of the Republic, H.E. Bajram Begaj, today hosted a meeting with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice-President of the European Commission, H. E. Ms. Kaja Kallas.
The focus of this meeting was the European enlargement process in the Balkan region, Albania’s progress in EU accession negotiations, Albania’s foreign policy, and its role in the region.
President Begaj expressed his gratitude to the High Representative for her unwavering commitment and special attention to the integration of the Western Balkans into the EU.
The expansion of the European Union into the Western Balkans was praised as the most effective geopolitical tool essential for maintaining security and stability in the region. President Begaj reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to continue playing a proactive role in regional cooperation in the Western Balkans, acting as a stabilizing factor.
The Head of State thanked Representative Kallas for the Growth Plan and the financial support that the European Union has provided to Albania and the region.
President Begaj confirmed Albania’s dedication to preserving the EU’s core values: respect for fundamental rights. During the conversation with Ms. Kallas, he expressed the country’s goal to open all negotiation chapters within this year and to complete the technical part of the negotiations, finalizing chapters by 2027 and achieving full membership by 2030.
“The commitment of Albania to its strategic goal of EU integration remains a key priority,” emphasized the Head of State.
Regarding progress in reforms that enable the country’s EU membership, President Begaj assured Ms. Kallas that Albania remains fully committed to the transformation program and reforms aimed at improving the political system, strengthening economic stability, and creating favorable conditions for the well-being of citizens. Additionally, President Begaj highlighted that the Albanian people have consistently supported EU integration over the past three decades, and enthusiasm for membership remains the highest in the region.
Alongside domestic reforms, Albania has been and continues to be aligned with EU positions.
Continuing its role in facilitating dialogue within the European security sphere, the President of the Republic informed that Albania will remain fully connected to the EU, actively participating in CSDP missions (Common Security and Defense Policy), and collaborating in international forums.