Ferit Hoxha from Pogradec: Foreign Service reform at the heart of Albania’s European diplomacy

Albania’s integration process into the European Union, deeper cooperation in the region, and Foreign Service reform are among the main directions of Albanian diplomacy in the period ahead, according to Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha.

During the Government Seminar in Pogradec, Hoxha said the meeting served to conduct a detailed review of the work, beyond day-to-day matters and routine, as well as to set clear priorities through the end of the year, including in the field of foreign policy.

In a post on X, the minister said that successfully continuing Albania’s path toward EU membership remains the primary objective. According to him, this process requires a faster pace of work, clear focus, and full commitment from the diplomatic service.

He also emphasized that investment would increase to strengthen regional cooperation, with the aim of making the Western Balkans more stable, more interconnected, more sustainable, and closer to Europe.

The announced priorities also include further simplifying and modernizing consular services so that they are faster, more accessible, and increasingly citizen-oriented.

Hoxha underscored that particular attention would be paid to continuing reform of the Foreign Service in order to build a modern, professional, and merit-based diplomatic service. According to him, this requires a capable, flexible, and dedicated diplomatic corps committed to representing the country with dignity, protecting national interests, and creating greater value for Albania.

This will aim to generate greater impact for the country’s image and its cultural and social promotion, stronger ties with the economy and trade, more connections, partnerships, and opportunities, as well as more concrete results for Albania and Albanian citizens.

“A European Albania also requires a European diplomacy,” said Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha.