Albania became the host of the sixth Summit of the European Political Community, which took place on May 16, 2025, in Tirana. This marks the first time the summit was held in the Western Balkans, with the participation of leaders, heads of state and government from 47 European countries, along with the heads of major European and international institutions.
The European Political Community, an idea initially proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron during his speech at the European Parliament in Strasbourg on May 9, 2022, aims to promote political dialogue and cooperation to address issues of shared interest, and to strengthen the security, stability, and prosperity of the European continent.
The holding of the Summit represents a moment of historic importance both for Albania and for the region as a whole, whose countries have made significant progress in democratization, economic development, and peaceful coexistence. Relations between countries in the region have improved, and cooperation has seen both qualitative and quantitative growth. The consolidation and institutionalization of the Euro-Atlantic and European perspective, the enlargement of NATO, and the expected enlargement of the EU into the Western Balkans have brought about profound positive changes in the region, serving as catalysts for democratic reforms, cooperation, and good neighborly relations.
The Tirana Summit took place at a pivotal moment for Europe, as the continent faces mounting global tensions. Hybrid threats, economic strain, and technological fragmentation are putting democratic resilience to the test and underscore the urgent need for a more coordinated and unified European response.
The Summit’s discussions were structured around high-level thematic roundtables. The first panel focused on Europe’s security and democratic resilience—addressing both immediate priorities, such as continued support for Ukraine in its pursuit of a just and lasting peace, and long-term challenges, including safeguarding democratic institutions from foreign interference and enhancing Europe’s collective defense capabilities.
In this context, amid the evolving international security landscape, Albania stands as a committed and influential contributor to peace and regional stability. The country’s internal security environment remains stable, while its strategic interests at the global level are shaped by its Western political orientation—as a NATO member, a candidate for European Union membership, and a nation grounded in democratic governance.
At the national level, Albania’s strategic interests align with its core national priorities. These interests are rooted in the fundamental values enshrined in the Constitution, the country’s political orientation, and its democratic system of governance. Central to them are the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Albania, as well as the security and well-being of its citizens—essential preconditions for the existence of a fully functional state and a stable society.
Strategic priorities for Albania also include the acceleration of the European Union accession process, the strengthening of cyber defense, the enhancement of resilience, the protection of critical and strategic infrastructure, and the improvement of energy, health and security.
The second roundtable examined how to enhance competitiveness and economic security, with a focus on innovation, digital infrastructure, energy resilience, and the strategic autonomy needed to secure critical supply chains and to balance climate objectives with industrial strength. In this regard, Albania has made notable progress across these areas, assuming a leading role in the region—supported by recent investments in innovation and digital infrastructure. Furthermore, with completed and ongoing investments in the energy and photovoltaic sectors, Albania has entered a new phase and is positioning itself at a higher regional standard.
The third session of the Summit adressed the complex dynamics of migration, mobility, and youth empowerment. This session explored the role of the next generation in shaping Europe’s future—particularly in the context of artificial intelligence and the rapidly accelerating pace of technological change.
With regard to youth engagement in shaping the future, the Albanian government has a clear vision: young people must be co-creators and play a leading role in decisions that directly impact their lives. Albania views the current youth landscape not as a challenge, but as an opportunity for development—placing young people at the heart of national progress. Empowered with the skills and opportunities needed to reach their full potential, youth can become a driving force in advancing development and contributing to peace and security.
The EPC Summit took place in the heart of Tirana, in Skanderbeg Square—a space where Albania’s rich history meets its modern identity. It is an ideal setting for open dialogue, shared aspirations, and the pursuit of a stronger, more united Europe.
