AMB. PIGLIAPOCO ATTENDING CEI MEETING OF MINISTERS OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS – TIRANA, 20 NOVEMBER 2024
On 20 November 2024, the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the CEI Member States gathered in Tirana for their Annual Meeting. The discussions centered on strengthening the CEI’s role in regional cooperation, advancing European integration, supporting Ukraine and its people, and addressing pressing global and regional challenges.
The meeting was officially opened by Albania’s Foreign Minister, H.E. Igli Hasani, alongside CEI Secretary General Roberto Antonione. Both emphasized the CEI’s pivotal role in fostering dialogue, solidarity, and constructive regional partnerships, especially in light of today’s international challenges.
The Ministers highlighted the EU integration process as a geostrategic investment in peace, democracy, and prosperity. They stressed that it remains a cornerstone for stability and security across the CEI region, and called for its further promotion. Ministers also reiterated their steadfast support for Ukraine in the face of Russia's ongoing aggression, condemning violations of its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Albania was commended for its leadership during the 2024 CEI Presidency, and best wishes were extended to Serbia as it prepares to assume the role in 2025.
Warm recognition was given to outgoing CEI Secretary General Roberto Antonione for his invaluable contributions, while congratulations were extended to his successor, Franco Dal Mas, marking a new chapter for the organization.
Ambassador Fabio Pigliapoco, Head of the AII Permanent Secretariat, also participated in the meeting as a representative of a regional organization that shares CEI’s core objectives of promoting European integration and fostering regional growth and prosperity.
In his address, Ambassador Pigliapoco underscored the strong partnership between AII and CEI, particularly through the 2019 Memorandum of Understanding and successful joint initiatives such as the IMAGINE – Active Young Citizens for Sustainable Development project. Rooted in the UN Agenda 2030, this project has empowered young people to actively contribute to sustainable development and strengthened collaboration across the region.
The Ambassador also reiterated AII’s commitment to the European integration of the Western Balkans, calling it a strategic priority essential for the region’s stability and growth. He highlighted the AII’s focus on involving civil society through Fora of Chambers of Commerce, Cities, and Universities, ensuring that regional strategies reflect the aspirations of local communities. This bottom-up approach helps bridge the gap between institutions and citizens, renewing trust in the European project.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of a Joint Statement, reaffirming the CEI Member States’ shared objectives and their determination to address regional and global challenges together.