Meeting in Tirana/ Hasani receives Irish Minister Byrne, thanks for support towards EU membership
The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Mr. Igli Hasani, received today at the premises of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence of Ireland, Mr. Thomas Byrne.
During the meeting, the progress of the European integration process of the Western Balkans was discussed, as an essential dimension for long-term peace and security on the continent.
The focus was on Albania's progress towards EU membership. Minister Hasani emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to advancing key reforms, calling European integration a clear national priority.
"Gratitude for Ireland's sustained support for the enlargement process and for the concrete support on our path towards membership. We hope to deepen cooperation further during Ireland's Presidency of the Council of the EU in the second half of 2026," said Minister Hasani.
He added that Albania is ready to open the next group of chapters in the negotiations and aims to conclude the technical part within 2027, with the aim of membership before the end of the decade.
Minister Hasani also underlined that Albania remains fully aligned with the EU's foreign and security policy, as well as being active in its civilian and military missions - an important contribution to regional security and beyond.
During the meeting, the strengthening of bilateral relations between Albania and Ireland was also discussed, including the opening of direct flights, as well as opportunities for increasing Irish investments.

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