Meloni in Brussels Says the Albania–Italy Model Is Shaping Europe’s Migration Approach

At the Global Alliance to Counter Migrant Smuggling conference in Brussels, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni emphasized Italy’s leading role in developing innovative migration management solutions that are gaining support throughout the European Union.
Speaking to senior European Union leaders and representatives, Meloni emphasized the cooperation protocol signed with Albania, describing it as an innovative, operational model.
Albania was represented by Minister of the Interior Albana Koçiu, who co-chaired the session on alternatives to irregular migration.
Prime Minister Meloni stated, “I would like to greet and thank Minister Koçiu, who is in Brussels today with the aim of processing asylum requests and return procedures outside the EU but under European jurisdiction.”
The Italian Prime Minister said this partnership has paved the way for new continental-level approaches. She emphasized that the Albania–Italy cooperation model is becoming a practical example for EU member states to consider.
This is further confirmed by the recent agreement reached by EU interior ministers. This agreement includes the introduction of the concept of safe third countries, the creation of a European list of safe countries of origin, and the adoption of the new Return Regulation.
This regulation opens the possibility of establishing “Return Centers” in third countries, a step that directly reflects the model tested with Albania.
In her address in Brussels, Meloni emphasized that the time for traditional solutions has passed and that modern migration management requires strong cross-border cooperation, procedural efficiency, and a new security architecture. The Albania–Italy model will serve as a cornerstone for Europe’s new direction.