The acting President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, has arrived in Albania as part of the European Political Community Summit, which will be held tomorrow in Tirana with the participation of over 40 European leaders.

Costa was welcomed by Prime Minister Edi Rama and praised Albania for its progress on the path to European Union integration.

“It is a pleasure for me to conclude my tour of the six Western Balkan countries here in Tirana. The enlargement process of the Western Balkans is the right investment, and it is in our hands to take this process to the end,” Costa stated.

He emphasized that Albania is on the right track toward the EU and that the will of the Albanian people for membership is clear, as reflected in the outcome of the recent elections.

“Membership is no longer a matter of if, but when. You know how to do it. I encourage you to keep your eyes on this goal and see it through,” he said.

In his speech, the President of the European Council highlighted the importance of the rule of law, the fight against corruption, and reforms as key elements for membership. He also mentioned the need to deepen cooperation in the areas of security and defense.

Costa described the hosting of the European Political Community Summit in Tirana as a historic moment for Albania and for the European Union itself, emphasizing that this is the first time such a meeting is held outside the EU’s territory.

“Europe is not only about prosperity or values, but also about building a shared future. I am pleased to see students here today – the generation that will carry the future of Europe on their shoulders. And fortunately, you have strong and long legs to take that step,” Costa concluded.

His visit to Tirana marks the end of his tour in the six Western Balkan countries and reinforces the support of European institutions for the region’s integration into the European family.