Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos on Monday met with his Albanian counterpart, Igli Hasani, to discuss regional developments, including Albania’s accession to the European Union and the Cyprus problem.

Kombos assured Hasani of Cyprus’ support for Albania’s EU accession path and thanked Albania for its continuous backing of the Cyprus issue, based on relevant UN resolutions, as expressed by Hasani.

“We agree on the need to strengthen institutional structures and deepen cooperation between our two countries,” Kombos said, referring to a Memorandum of Cooperation signed between the diplomatic academies of the two ministries during Hasani’s visit.

Echoing his counterpart, Albanian Foreign Minister Hasani described Cyprus as a vital partner, particularly regarding Albania’s path to EU membership. He underlined Albania’s “unwavering commitment” to the negotiations, adding that the country aims to conclude them by 2027 and secure full EU membership by 2030.

“We particularly appreciate the willingness expressed by Cypriot officials to offer technical assistance and share their valuable experience,” he added, thanking Cyprus for its continued support in many aspects of the integration process. Hasani said he looked forward to working hand in hand with Cyprus during this pivotal period as Albania pushed forward on its EU accession path.

The ministers also highlighted plans to expand bilateral cooperation between the two countries, with an emphasis on tourism, energy, shipping, information and communications technology, education, and pharmaceuticals.

“We identified a very important common element, which is the impact of tourism on our respective economies,” Kombos said. As a result, Cyprus and Albania agreed to cooperate closely, sharing best practices to strengthen ties in this area.

Hasani, for his part, emphasised Cyprus’ advanced expertise in areas such as maritime affairs, which could support Albania’s efforts to transform into a regional transit hub, creating “significant potential for joint projects and investments.”

During their meeting, the two foreign ministers underscored the close alignment between Albania and Cyprus on major international challenges. Both reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to international law, territorial integrity, and a rules-based international order.

Key topics included the security landscape in Europe and the Mediterranean, particularly Russia’s war in Ukraine, the conflict in the Middle East, and regional developments in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean.

The ministers clearly condemned Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine and expressed “deep concern” over the “worsening humanitarian crisis” in Gaza. Hasani stressed Albania’s support for all efforts toward a sustainable ceasefire, the safe release of hostages, the protection of civilians, and the revival of a credible political process aimed at achieving lasting peace through a two-state solution.

Following his meeting with Kombos, Hasani met with House Speaker Annita Demetriou. The two officials also discussed regional developments, with Demetriou expressing hope that the upcoming expanded meeting in July would pave the way for the resumption of meaningful talks on the reunification of Cyprus.

“We hope for Turkey’s cooperation,” Demetriou said, stressing the importance of Ankara’s involvement in achieving a just and lasting solution that would contribute to regional and EU stability. Demetriou reaffirmed Cyprus’ support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans and congratulated Albania on its progress toward EU membership.

“We must work together to ensure our peace, stability, security, and defense,” she said.

During their meeting, they also exchanged views on issues of mutual interest, including migration. Demetriou highlighted the pressure Cyprus faces as a “frontline country” managing large numbers of migrants compared to its population. She stressed the importance of regional cooperation and the need for full implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.

Hasani reaffirmed Albania’s willingness to deepen engagement with Cyprus, expressing his country’s desire to strengthen exchanges at all levels, including parliamentary cooperation and ties between the two peoples.