Why is this significant

This visit is an important moment in strengthening Albania’s diplomatic ties with the Baltic states and enhancing political, economic, and security cooperation between Albania and Latvia, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine which has served to bring the Albania and the Baltic Three even closer to each other.

Why is this significant

The removal of the Greek veto would allow Albania to continue its negotiation process after a year-long blockade, advancing with the first set of negotiation chapters. Minister Hasani stated that the negotiating team is prepared with the full dossier, not only for the first chapter related to justice and the rule of law but also for two additional chapters. The Albanian side is now waiting for all EU member states to agree on a date for the second intergovernmental conference, which has been delayed for a year due to Greece’s objections.

Why is this important

Kosovo declared its independence in February 2008, and its recognition by additional countries remains a key foreign policy goal for Albania, particularly given the presence of a large Albanian ethnic population in Kosovo. The President’s request reflects not just Albania’s commitment to increasing international recognition for Kosovo, but also its concern with the current state of affairs given the fact that 10 out of 114 countries that initially recognized Kosovo’s independence have since withdrawn their recognition.