Fostering Integration: The Networking Conference on EU Rapprochement and Enlargement in Tirana

From 2 to 5 December 2024, the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, in collaboration with the German Embassy in Tirana, successfully hosted the regional networking conference „EU Rapprochement and Enlargement“ in the vibrant capital of Albania. This event, a key component of Diplomacy by Networking (1-DA), brought together 18 participants from five EU accession countries. It was designed to strengthen professional networks, deepen understanding of EU accession processes, and foster cooperation, particularly in the context of ongoing regional and global challenges.
The programme, meticulously developed under the leadership of programme director Ambassador (ret.) Dr Anna Prinz, was enriched by high-level trainers such as Professor Lars Kirchhoff (mediation techniques), Andrej Engelman, former Slovene State Secretary (EU accession expertise), and Barbara Tanze (presentation and voice management). Together, they guided participants through an intensive curriculum focused on negotiation and mediation strategies with practical lessons from Slovenia’s EU accession journey.
The conference’s opening reception, hosted at the German Ambassador’s residence, set a collaborative tone by welcoming key Albanian diplomats, including the Deputy EU Chief Negotiator and the Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs. A reciprocal Albanian Ministry reception later in the week fostered further exchanges, underlining Albania’s commitment to the EU integration process as well as the importance of regional partnership.
Key discussions during the event tackled critical issues such as the integration of the EU Acquis Communautaire, the challenges of neighbour-state conflicts, and the broader geopolitical implications of EU enlargement in light of the Ukraine crisis. The active participation of young diplomats underscored their shared determination to advance reforms and navigate the complexities of accession.
The choice of Tirana as the host city was seen as both a cost-effective solution and a symbolic gesture of support for the Western Balkans’ EU ambitions. Held at the German Embassy and the nearby Hotel Colosseo, the event utilised local resources efficiently, reflecting both financial prudence and strong organisational collaboration.
Participants praised the conference’s structure, the quality of training, and the opportunity for in-person networking, which had been limited during prior online courses. This event highlighted the significant impact of face-to-face interaction, reinforcing both professional and personal connections.
The success of this conference is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared commitment to a common European future. It also serves as a model for future networking initiatives aimed at strengthening ties between EU candidates and fostering deeper understanding of the integration process.

Alumni Team