Meloni and Zelensky first leaders to congratulate Rama on victory, praise Albania’s role in Europe and global affairs

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have congratulated Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama on his victory in the May 11 parliamentary elections, reaffirming their support for stronger bilateral relations and Albania’s growing role on the European stage.

What did Meloni say: In a warm message of support, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni praised the outcome of the elections and highlighted the strategic partnership between Italy and Albania.

“I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Edi Rama for his reappointment as head of the Albanian government,” Meloni said. “The deep friendship and strategic cooperation that bind our nations have been strengthened through joint initiatives—outcomes of a constructive dialogue and shared commitment to global challenges.”

Meloni also emphasized that her government would continue working closely with Rama’s to support regional stability and advance Albania’s path toward the European Union.

“We will continue to work to further strengthen the ties between our two governments and to achieve shared objectives, including reinforcing stability in the Balkans and advancing Albania’s EU integration,” she added.

In response, Rama took to social media to thank Meloni personally:

“Thank you, Sister. It is an honor to serve such an extraordinary relationship of closeness and friendship as the one between Albania and Italy, and a privilege to collaborate with a leader like you, who says what she does and does what she says,” Rama wrote. He added with humor: “I’m not sure if I wrote un leader or una leader correctly, but I’m sure the best for our two countries is yet to come.”

What did Zelensky say: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also extended his congratulations via social media, praising Rama’s leadership and Albania’s consistent support for Ukraine.

“Congratulations to @ediramaal and the Socialist Party for their convincing election victory. I wish you success in serving the Albanian people,” Zelensky wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

He further highlighted Albania’s firm position on the war in Ukraine:

“We value your clear and unwavering stance on the need for sustainable peace in Ukraine, which can be achieved only through a full and unconditional ceasefire.”

Zelensky concluded by expressing his hope to deepen cooperation:

“I look forward to further strengthening the friendly relations between our countries for the benefit of both nations.”

Context: These messages from European and global leaders underscore Albania’s rising diplomatic profile. Rama’s fourth term comes at a time when Albania is not only consolidating its path toward EU accession but also playing a more visible role in regional stability and international affairs, including support for Ukraine and hosting the upcoming European Political Community Summit in Tirana.