- by croatiaweek
- July 28, 2026
-
in
News
(Photo: Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs)
TIRANA, 28 July 2026 – Croatia has reaffirmed its strong support for Albania’s European Union membership ambitions during an official visit by Foreign and European Affairs Minister Gordan Grlić Radman to Tirana.
During the two day visit on 27 and 28 July, Grlić Radman held talks with Albania’s senior political leaders on strengthening bilateral relations, Albania’s progress towards EU membership, regional security and expanding economic cooperation.
In a meeting with Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, both sides confirmed the traditionally close and friendly relationship between Croatia and Albania, built on mutual trust, shared values and their alliance within NATO, the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs said in a statement.
The ministers agreed to continue strengthening ties ahead of the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations, which will be marked in 2027.
A key topic of discussion was Albania’s progress in its EU accession negotiations. Grlić Radman congratulated Albania on its recent achievements, including the provisional closure of Chapters 25, 26 and 30 of the accession process.
He said Croatia would continue providing political, technical and expert support, drawing on its own experience of joining the European Union.
The talks also covered opportunities to expand cooperation in the economy and defence, improve transport and energy links, strengthen migration management and work together to protect the Adriatic Sea.
Grlić Radman also met Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, with discussions focusing on deepening the strategic partnership, increasing political and economic cooperation and advancing regional transport and infrastructure projects. The two officials also exchanged views on current security challenges and closer coordination as NATO allies.
(Photo: Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs)
During talks with Albanian President Bajram Begaj, both sides reaffirmed the excellent bilateral relationship and their shared commitment to European and Euro Atlantic values.
As part of the visit, the Croatian minister also met Deputy Speaker of the Albanian Parliament Klodiana Spahiu, where discussions centred on parliamentary cooperation and Albania’s European integration process.
He also held talks with Apostolic Nuncio to Albania, Archbishop Giovanni Peragine, on regional developments, social issues and the importance of interfaith dialogue.
The Croatian Foreign Ministry said the visit confirmed the high level of trust between Croatia and Albania and reaffirmed Croatia’s continued commitment to supporting the European future of the Western Balkans through a credible, merit based enlargement process.
