go to the original language article
Under the slogan “New Europe in a new world,” the sixth summit of the European Political Community gathered in Tirana heads of state and government from 47 European countries, along with leaders of key European and international institutions.
After the welcoming ceremony and family photo, the European leaders headed to the “House of Europe” built specifically in Skanderbeg Square, adorned with drawings by children from Albania, which became a symbol of unity for “a new Europe in a new world.”
The plenary session focused on the security and democratic resilience of Europe, addressing both immediate imperatives – such as supporting Ukraine in its quest for a just and sustainable peace – and long-term challenges, including protecting democratic processes from foreign interference and strengthening Europe’s collective defense capabilities.
Prime Minister Rama chaired the plenary session, where he initially addressed the attendees with a welcoming speech.
The head of the Albanian government emphasized the euro-optimism of a region that has survived economic collapse, migration, displacement, and has endured fake news even before this term was created, and has learned that cooperation has no losers.
“Why not imagine a EPC for education, science, and artificial intelligence? An international alliance beyond armament, a terrain of interconnected knowledge resources, scientific research, innovation, where territories that are not EU members or are not yet EU members can become new investment borders without bureaucracy, without regulations and fiscal burdens,” proposed Rama.
Subsequently, the speeches focused on the situation of the conflict in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that it is clear that “President Zelensky is ready for a meeting, but President Putin never showed up, and this shows his true stance. Therefore, we will increase the pressure,” referring to the talks in Istanbul.
Von der Leyen said that the EU is preparing a new package of sanctions. She stated that the measures will target the shadow fleet of old cargo ships that Russia is using to evade international sanctions, as well as the Nord Stream gas pipeline consortium. (May 17)