Tirana to host European Political Community Summit on May 16
Albania’s capital will host the 6th meeting of the European Political Community (EPC) on May 16, bringing together the heads of state or government from 44 European countries. This is the first time the summit will be held in the Western Balkans, marking a significant moment for the region’s place in European political dialogue.
Why this is important: The summit’s arrival in Tirana signals growing regional relevance in European and regional affairs and highlights Albania’s role as a platform for dialogue on Europe’s future. Previous EPC summits have taken place in the Czech Republic, Moldova, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Hungary. This makes Albania the first non-EU country in the region to host the forum.
Context: Launched in autumn 2022 in Prague, the European Political Community was initiated by French President Emmanuel Macron with the aim of fostering dialogue across Europe — including both EU and non-EU states — at a time of increased geopolitical instability. The idea was born as a response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the broader threat to European security and democratic values.
The upcoming summit comes as Europe again faces instability and growing concern over defense, democratic resilience, and energy security. Prime Minister Edi Rama confirmed via social media that security and democratic stability will be the first item on the agenda.
Other key topics for discussion include:
- Strengthening economic competitiveness and security
- Migration and mobility
- Youth empowerment
- Leadership and innovation in a shifting global landscape
The summit is expected to welcome leaders beginning the afternoon of May 15, with formal discussions scheduled for May 16 in various venues across Tirana.
What else: To prepare for the event, the Albanian government last week approved an additional budget allocation to support the summit’s organization. In this Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, it was also decided that May 15 and 16 will be public holidays for municipal employees in Tirana, Kamëz, Vorë, and Krujë, due to planned road closures and security measures.
Exceptions apply to essential services, including police, the armed forces, emergency responders, and healthcare workers, who will remain on duty.
The summit is expected to further position Albania as a serious contributor to European dialogue and cooperation, particularly on security and democratic issues at the heart of today’s European agenda.
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