16 January 2024
The recent Council of Ministers Decision, published on January 8, 2024, marks a crucial milestone for Albania as it aligns the country’s standards with the EU Directive of Professional Qualifications, paving the way for seamless integration into the EU Single Market. Upon the operationalization of the automatic recognition system based on the EU acquis, seven professions, will be open for free practice across the borders of the EU-Albania region.
Furthermore, the country signed the Single Market Programme (SMP) Association Agreement in late December 2023, formalized by DG GROW Director General Kerstin JORNA and Albanian Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy, Endrit YZEIRAJ. Once the agreement comes into force, Albanian entities will gain access to various EU programs, including Enterprise Europe Network and Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs, ensuring continuity with previous initiatives such as the Competitiveness of Enterprises and SMEs (COSME) programs.
With Albania’s inclusion, all Western Balkan countries have joined the EU funding program, reflecting a collective commitment to regional development and integration. This collaboration is expected to create new avenues for cooperation thus bringong the Western Balkans closer to the European Union.
