Albania

Albania, located on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, is a founding member of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR). Since its inception, the country has actively engaged in the Strategy, using it as a key platform for regional cooperation, alignment with EU policies, and preparation for European Union membership.

Over the past decade, EUSAIR has evolved into an important instrument for Albania’s European integration. It supports policy alignment, institutional capacity building, and cross-border cooperation, effectively serving as an operational step toward EU accession. In the context of renewed EU enlargement momentum, Albania considers EUSAIR a strategic tool for fostering economic, social and territorial cohesion across the Adriatic–Ionian region.

Implementation at national level is supported by a well-established institutional framework. The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs acts as National Coordinator, while the State Agency for Strategic Programming and Aid Coordination (SASPAC) ensures coordination of EU funding and cross-sectoral planning. Line ministries lead and contribute across the Strategy’s thematic pillars, ensuring policy coherence and alignment with the EUSAIR Action Plan.

Albania has made progress in aligning national policies with EUSAIR priorities. Key developments include transport and energy reforms in line with EU standards, strategic infrastructure investments such as the Port of Durrës and regional rail connections, and advances in sustainable tourism and cultural heritage management. In the blue economy, national strategies increasingly integrate sustainable fisheries, aquaculture and maritime spatial planning. Coastal municipalities are also incorporating eco-tourism and marine governance into local development frameworks.

Stakeholder engagement has expanded significantly, with increased participation from local authorities, academia, civil society and the private sector. However, challenges remain, particularly for smaller actors facing limited access to funding and complex administrative procedures. Efforts are ongoing to improve inclusiveness through capacity building, training and better access to information.

Institutional capacity remains a key factor for effective implementation. While EU financial support, including IPA III, plays an important role, strengthening administrative capacity, coordination mechanisms and technical expertise is essential to fully benefit from available opportunities.

EUSAIR has also strengthened Albania’s regional cooperation and geopolitical positioning. It has facilitated trust-building, joint planning and cross-border initiatives, particularly in connectivity, environmental protection and the blue economy. Recent geopolitical developments, including energy security concerns and climate-related challenges, have further increased the importance of regional cooperation within the Strategy.

The implementation of EUSAIR is complemented by synergies with other regional initiatives, such as the Berlin Process, INTERREG programmes and other macro-regional strategies. Alignment with EU priorities, including the Green Deal and Smart Specialization, offers opportunities for modernization and increased funding, while also requiring enhanced institutional readiness.

In conclusion, Albania has made steady progress in leveraging EUSAIR as a tool for regional development and EU integration. Continued investment in institutional capacity, infrastructure and inclusive governance will be essential to sustain progress and maximize the benefits of the Strategy in the years ahead.