Tirana, June 10 (Albania Journal) – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, took part in a discussion on the country’s European future during a visit to Dublin, where he praised Ireland’s continued support for EU enlargement.
The event, hosted by the Institute of International and European Affairs (IIEA), brought together representatives from civil society and the research community to discuss Albania’s progress towards European Union membership and the broader outlook for the bloc’s enlargement agenda.
In a post on X on Wednesday, Hoxha said the exchange focused on Albania’s EU integration process and the geopolitical importance of expanding the Union.
“It is always a pleasure to engage with civil society and the research community,” he wrote.
Hoxha described Albania’s accession journey as entering its most dynamic, challenging and decisive phase since the country’s democratic transition began more than 30 years ago.
According to the minister, discussions highlighted Albania’s reform efforts, the renewed momentum behind EU enlargement and the key steps needed to advance the country’s strategic goal of joining the bloc.
Participants also examined the wider geopolitical significance of enlargement and stressed the need for a credible, merit-based accession process for candidate countries.
Hoxha welcomed Ireland’s ongoing backing for EU enlargement and said the country’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union could play an important role in shaping future discussions on European integration.
He also thanked the IIEA and those attending the event for what he described as a valuable and constructive exchange of views.
