Albania’s diplomatic relations with Turkey are set to strengthen further as Albanian Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani prepares for an official visit to Turkey on February 27, 2025. This visit aims to enhance bilateral relations and regional cooperation, focusing on various strategic areas.
Key Takeaways
- Albanian Foreign Minister Igli Hasani will meet with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.
- The agenda includes trade, defense, counterterrorism, and cultural collaboration.
- Turkey is a significant investor in Albania, with over 800 Turkish companies operating in the country.
Overview of the Visit
During his visit, Hasani will engage in discussions with Fidan to reinforce the strategic partnership established in 2021. The meeting will cover key issues such as:
- Trade and Investment Opportunities: Exploring avenues for economic growth and collaboration.
- Defense Industry Cooperation: Enhancing military ties and joint defense initiatives.
- Counterterrorism Efforts: Strengthening measures against terrorism, particularly concerning FETO activities in Albania.
- Cultural Collaboration: Promoting cultural exchanges and understanding between the two nations.
- Geopolitical Developments: Addressing regional and global issues affecting both countries.
- International Cooperation: Working together within international organizations to achieve common goals.
Turkey’s Commitment to Albania
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is expected to emphasize Turkey’s dedication to enhancing bilateral relations. Key points of focus include:
- Reinforcing the Legal Framework: Establishing a solid foundation for the partnership.
- Expanding Economic Cooperation: Targeting growth in technology, IT, energy, and defense sectors.
- Maintaining Peace and Stability: Joint efforts to ensure security in the Balkans.
- Continued Collaboration: Working together in international organizations.
- Strengthening Counterterrorism: Focusing on collaborative efforts against terrorism.
Economic and Strategic Cooperation
Albania is a crucial NATO ally and a significant regional partner for Turkey. The two nations elevated their relations to a strategic partnership with the signing of a Joint Political Declaration in 2021. Highlights of their cooperation include:
- High-Level Meetings: Two High-Level Cooperation Council meetings were held in 2024, chaired by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.
- Economic Growth: Turkey ranks among the top foreign investors in Albania, with investments exceeding $3.5 billion and over 800 Turkish companies operating in the country.
- Trade Expansion: The trade volume reached $1 billion in 2022, with a target of doubling this figure in the coming years.
- Military Collaboration: Plans are underway to enhance defense and military cooperation between the two nations.
Turkey’s Support for Albania’s Development
Turkey has played a vital role in Albania’s development through various investments and projects. Notable contributions include:
- Infrastructure Development: Turkey has invested in 602 projects in Albania, worth approximately $50 million over the past 30 years.
- Historic Preservation: Restoration of Ottoman-era structures in Albanian cities.
- Educational Support: Initiatives aimed at improving education and training in Albania.
As Albania and Turkey continue to strengthen their diplomatic relations, the upcoming visit by Minister Hasani marks a significant step towards deeper cooperation and mutual growth in various sectors.
