Albania hosts “Lead Balkans” conference

The “Lead Balkans – Regional Leaders of the Diaspora” conference opened its proceedings in Tirana, bringing together over 100 regional leaders, officials, academics and media representatives from across the Western Balkans.

In the capacity of the host country representative, Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania Miriam Shyti emphasized, CE Report quotes ATA.

“During the time being, we are placing the Diaspora at the heart of our strategic vision of our European future”.

On behalf of the Montenegrin Presidency of the Western Balkans Fund for 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro Ervin Ibrahimović delivered a recorded message:

“The Diaspora is the best ambassador of our culture and a key partner in supporting the development and strengthening the vital ties between our region and the world”.

On behalf of the Embassy of Japan in Tirana, Chargé d’Affaires Omori welcomed the “Lead Balkans” conference, underlining Japan’s strong commitment to the Western Balkans region and its continued support for initiatives that foster regional cooperation and stronger institutional ties with the Diaspora communities.

The Western Balkans Fund CEO, Dr. Gjergj Murra emphasized that more than just a forum for ideas, this conference is a concrete step toward long-term regional solutions, specifically targeting human capital loss and enhancing diaspora cooperation.

On his part, Director of the Visegrad International Fund Kapustová Helbichová reaffirmed his support for regional dialogue, cooperation and stronger cross-border partnerships.

The “Lead Balkans – Regional Leaders of the Diaspora” conference is organized by the Western Balkans Fund, with the financial support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the Visegrad International Fund and the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO).