Archbishop of Albania supports country's accession to European Union

Archbishop Ioannis of Albania with EU officials. Photo: orthodoxtimes.com

On January 13, 2026, Archbishop Ioannis of Albania held a series of important meetings with high-ranking European Union representatives in Brussels, supporting the country's EU accession.

During the visit Archbishop Ioannis met with Marco Tarquinio (Italy), chairman of the European Parliament delegation for Albania and member of the European Parliament, noting the key role of the delegation in Albania's European integration process.

During meetings with EU officials, Archbishop Ioannis emphasized that Albania's accession to the European Union would benefit not only the country and its citizens, but Europe itself.

Issues of religious freedom in Europe were also discussed, with particular emphasis on the successful model of harmonious coexistence among religious communities in Albania.

At the same time, current challenges faced by religious communities were addressed, especially with regard to property rights.

The meetings took place as part of the Archbishop's visit to Brussels from January 12-15, 2026, to participate in the conference "Life, Works and Legacy of the Late Archbishop Anastasios," which was held on January 14 at the European Parliament. 

Earlier, the UOJ reported that according to Archbishop Ioannis of Albania, Orthodoxy is a key pillar of Albania's European path.

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