Athens and Tirana seek to resolve longstanding disputes

The Greek daily Kathimerini reports that Athens and Tirana are making progress in resolving their long-standing disputes through continuous negotiations. Relations between the two nations, which have often been strained over issues such as minority rights and territorial disagreements, are now moving toward a more collaborative phase. Recent developments, such as Albania’s steps to implement minority rights legislation, signal a possible turning point.

Why is this important: Improved relations between Albania and Greece could have significant regional and European implications, especially as Albania advances in its EU accession process. Athens, a crucial player in this process, has chosen not to block Albania’s progress following Tirana’s implementation of minority rights legislation from 2017. The legislation allows members of the Greek minority in Albania to self-identify outside traditional minority zones, a long-standing demand from Athens.

However, challenges remain. Unresolved issues include the maritime border delimitation, the repeal of Greece’s wartime “state of war” law with Albania, and property claims of the Cham Albanian community. The progress highlights Albania’s careful balancing act of maintaining its sovereignty while meeting EU-related reforms and engaging constructively with its Greek neighbor.

Context: Tensions between the two nations peaked last year following the arrest of Fredi Beleri, a mayoral candidate in Himarë with Greek ties, ahead of local elections. While this incident deepened divisions, ongoing bilateral consultations helped shift the narrative toward compromise. According to Kathimerini, recent meetings between the two governments have focused on advancing EU-related reforms and minority protections.

Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government took significant steps in December 2024 to implement legislation for identifying minority populations, a move that appears to have influenced Greece’s decision not to veto Albania’s latest EU accession chapter.

Greek officials, however, remain cautious. While they acknowledge progress, they emphasize the importance of resolving outstanding issues before relations can fully normalize.

What’s next: Athens and Tirana’s continued dialogue is expected to focus on pressing issues like maritime borders and unresolved historical grievances. Greece’s support for Albania’s EU membership, contingent on reforms, underscores the strategic importance of bilateral cooperation for both countries.