Albanian Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha lauded Cyprus’ leadership during its six-month term as holder of the EU Council’s rotating presidency, highlighting its exceptional handling of EU enlargement issues. Meeting with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides in Nicosia, Hoxha specifically commended European Affairs Deputy Minister Marilena Raouna for advancing Albania’s EU accession process.

President Christodoulides expressed Cyprus’ strong support for Albania’s bid to join the EU and emphasized the mutual desire to strengthen bilateral relations. Raouna previously noted that Albania continues steady reforms required for EU membership, with the process being merit-based and results-oriented.

The European Enlargement Commissioner has described Albania as a frontrunner in the accession process, with substantial progress made but further work ahead. Albanian and Serbian leaders have called for an accelerated integration into the EU, proposing gradual entry into the single market and Schengen zone while postponing full membership rights. Cyprus remains committed to advancing enlargement as a key EU project.