The Polish and the Albanian heads of diplomacy talked about the security situation in Europe, aid to Ukraine, advancements in bilateral cooperation, as well as the situation in the Western Balkans and the prospects for the region’s European integration. Minister Sikorski expressed full support for Albania’s European aspirations and offered congratulations on the recent opening of new chapters in EU accession negotiations. He also hoped for the continuation of an ambitious reform programme and the opening of more negotiation areas during Poland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2025. Minister Sikorski added that the enlargement policy has been among the priorities of the Polish Presidency, with Poland actively supporting Western Balkan partners in the European integration process.

Also, the minister reaffirmed willingness to support Albania’s European integration process with the knowledge and experience of Polish administration, and presented a list of specific areas for potential support, adjusted to the needs of the Albanian side. Those areas include regional development, absorption of EU funds, strategic management in cohesion policy, public procurement, or public administration’s capacity building in the negotiation and accession process.

The talks held by the Polish chief diplomat in Tirana showed that the relations between Albania and Poland are very good, and both sides wish for that fruitful cooperation to continue, both bilaterally and within international and regional organisations. Interestingly, Albania is popular with Polish tourists, while the growing trade between the two countries still has major untapped potential.

 

Photo: Sebastian Indra/MSZ