The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, participated on 29 September 2026 in Vienna in the high-level meeting of Ministers for European Affairs of the Slavkov format, comprising Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, together with the countries of the Western Balkans.

The meeting, hosted by Austria’s Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Family, Claudia Bauer, focused on the progress of the European Union enlargement process and on strengthening cooperation with candidate countries.

In his remarks, Minister Hoxha stressed that enlargement must remain a credible, merit-based process, delivering tangible benefits to citizens at every stage.

Speaking about Albania’s priorities, he underlined the need for clearer and more compelling communication on European integration, bringing the EU closer to citizens and explaining the opportunities offered by this process. He paid particular attention to the younger generation, which should feel part of the European family even before accession.

In this regard, the Minister stressed that gradual integration should provide concrete opportunities and benefits even before membership. He also called for greater participation of candidate countries in the work of EU institutions, in order to prepare them to contribute effectively from the first day of membership.

Referring to today’s strategic challenges, Minister Hoxha stressed that enlargement goes beyond being a political choice.

“It is a geopolitical imperative and an essential investment in Europe’s peace, security, stability, competitiveness and resilience,” he stated.

Minister Hoxha reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to continuing reforms and advancing towards membership through concrete results.

“We will continue to deliver results, advance on the basis of merit, and work closely with our partners towards a stronger, more united and more secure Europe,” Minister Hoxha said.