Poland takes over EU presidency amid Albania's EU negotiations

Jan 1, 2025 - Poland has officially taken over the next six-month presidency of the European Union, following Hungary’s leadership. The transition is significant for Albania, which is actively pursuing EU membership. With hopes for accelerated progress under Poland's leadership, Albania looks to advance its negotiations with the EU, particularly with the opening of additional chapters in the accession process.

During Hungary’s presidency, Albania made notable achievements, including the lifting of a Greek veto, which allowed the country to open its first negotiating chapters. Albania has already opened two chapters, one on "Fundamentals" and another on foreign policy and defense.

The Albanian government’s goal is clear: by 2025, it hopes to open all remaining chapters and fast-track its EU accession process, aiming to close them by 2027.

In December, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski visited Albania, where he confirmed that Poland's EU presidency will prioritize the integration of the Western Balkans, with a focus on Albania's negotiations. Sikorski also pledged Poland’s support in providing legal and administrative assistance throughout the process.

With the Polish Presidency now underway, Albania’s ambitions to secure a swift and successful integration into the EU remain firmly in focus, underpinned by the country’s progress in its negotiations so far.