Road to the EU: Minister Hoxha from Vienna says Albania is advancing on merit, vows to keep delivering results

Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha took part on 29 September 2026 in Vienna in the high-level meeting of ministers for European affairs of the Slavkov format countries — comprising Austria, Czechia and Slovakia — and the Western Balkan states.

The meeting, organized by Austria’s Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Family, Claudia Bauer, focused on the progress of the European Union’s enlargement process and on strengthening cooperation with candidate countries.

In his address, Minister Hoxha stressed that enlargement must remain a credible, merit-based process with tangible benefits for citizens at every stage.

Speaking about Albania’s priorities, he underlined the need for clearer and more convincing communication on European integration, bringing the EU closer to citizens and explaining to them the opportunities the process brings. He paid particular attention to the young generation, who must feel they belong to the European family even before membership.

In this regard, the minister stressed that gradual integration must bring concrete opportunities and benefits even before accession. He also called for expanding candidate countries’ participation in the work of EU institutions, to prepare them to contribute effectively from the very first day of membership.

Referring to today’s strategic challenges, Hoxha stressed that enlargement goes beyond a political choice.

“It is a geopolitical imperative and an essential investment in Europe’s peace, security, stability, competitiveness and resilience,” he said.

The minister reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to continuing reforms and advancing toward membership through concrete results.

“We will continue to deliver results, advance on the basis of merit and cooperate closely with our partners toward a stronger, more united and more secure Europe,” Minister Hoxha said.