Europe is entering a decisive phase where connectivity, resilience, and regional integration are becoming central pillars of security and economic development. In this context, the Pan-European Corridor VIII, linking the Adriatic and Black Seas, is emerging as one of the most strategic infrastructure and connectivity projects for Southeast Europe and the wider European continent.

Building on growing political momentum, the Corridor VIII framework is evolving from coordination toward concrete implementation. As a core component of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), the corridor connects Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria, while extending toward Italy and Romania, strengthening regional connectivity, collective security, and Europe’s east-west resilience.

Albania plays a pivotal role in this transformation. Through the modernization of national transport networks, the development of port and logistics infrastructure, particularly the Port of Durrës, and investments in energy and digital connectivity, Albania is positioning itself as a strategic gateway connecting Western Balkans markets with European and global supply chains.

A key milestone in advancing this agenda will be the Corridor VIII Economic Forum, to be hosted in Tirana on 18 February 2026, bringing together public authorities, European institutions, international financial institutions, and business stakeholders. The Forum will focus on translating strategic connectivity into concrete infrastructure and investment projects, strengthening transport, logistics, and energy links, improving trade facilitation and border efficiency, and mobilizing European and international financing instruments.

Advancing Corridor VIII means accelerating investment, deepening regional cooperation, and delivering tangible economic benefits for citizens and businesses across the region. Albania remains fully committed to working with regional and European partners to transform Corridor VIII into a powerful engine of integration, sustainable growth, and shared prosperity.