On 18 February 2026, Tirana will become the center of regional dialogue aimed at reaffirming the strategic importance of one of the region’s most significant infrastructure and geopolitical projects: the Corridor VIII Ministerial, which will take place at the Palace of Brigades with the participation of delegations from Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Italy, and Romania, as well as representatives from partner countries.

The meeting aims to deepen intergovernmental cooperation to accelerate the development of Corridor VIII as a strategic artery for transport, economic development, and security, while simultaneously contributing to strengthened regional integration and enhanced connectivity with the main European networks.

The plenary session will address the theme: “Corridor VIII at Europe’s Strategic Moment: Connectivity, Resilience through Military Mobility, and Shared Prosperity through Integration,” highlighting the role of Corridor VIII as a strategic pillar that integrates the economic, security, and regional connectivity dimensions in support of shared prosperity.

During the Ministerial, the adoption of a Joint Declaration is expected, while the program will also include bilateral meetings and a joint press conference.

Within the framework of the Ministerial, the Corridor VIII Economic Forum will also be held under the theme “From Strategic Connectivity to Regional Economic Growth: The Economic Potential of Corridor VIII,” taking place at the premises of the Bank of Albania (Building No. 2, former Hotel Dajti).

The Economic Forum will bring together public authorities, European institutions, international financial institutions, and economic stakeholders to advance dialogue on economic development, connectivity, and investment along Corridor VIII. Discussions will focus on trade facilitation as well as industrial development aimed at enhancing regional competitiveness. The Forum seeks to mobilize European and international financing instruments and to produce concrete recommendations to transform Corridor VIII into a catalyst for investment, growth, and regional economic integration.

Media representatives and interested parties may obtain accreditation and register by applying through the following addresses:

Media accreditation (deadline: Sunday, 15 February 2026, for both the Ministerial and the Forum):

Media-CorridorVIII-Ministerial@mfa.gov.al

Registration for participants in the Economic Forum:

CorridorVIII-Forum.Secretariat@mfa.gov.al

Applicants are kindly requested to submit: first name, last name, position, name of institution/media outlet, and a personal photograph.