TIRANA, April 15 – Albania’s chief EU negotiator Majlinda Dhuka said on Wednesday that the country stands at a decisive stage in its European integration process. She described the current phase as both historic and transformative.
Speaking at the 4th Diaspora Summit in Tirana, Dhuka said the “Albania 2030 in the EU” goal has become concrete and achievable. She noted that Albania has moved beyond preparation and entered intensive negotiations with the European Union. Authorities have opened talks across 33 chapters and now focus on advancing each stage.
Dhuka said institutions now work to meet conditions and move toward closing negotiation chapters. She stressed that the process drives deep structural change alongside EU accession. She compared the scale of reform to Albania’s democratic transition in the 1990s.
At the same time, she highlighted the diaspora as a critical force in this effort. She said Albania needs the experience, expertise, and innovation that citizens abroad bring from EU countries. She urged diaspora communities to engage actively in the integration process.
Dhuka also called for broader public support within EU member states. She encouraged Albanians abroad to improve perceptions of their country. She urged them to challenge stereotypes and promote Albania’s progress.
The panel examined how institutions can integrate diaspora contributions into public policy. Discussions focused on priority areas where diaspora input can have direct impact. Participants also explored mechanisms to ensure coordinated and measurable engagement in the EU alignment process.
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