On 18 February 2026, Tirana will become the center of regional dialogue, reaffirming the strategic importance of one of the region’s key infrastructure and geopolitical projects: the Corridor VIII Ministerial. The meeting will take place at the Palace of Brigades, with delegations attending from Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Italy, Romania, and partner countries.
The meeting aims to deepen intergovernmental cooperation to accelerate the development of Corridor VIII as a strategic transport artery, fostering economic growth and security, while strengthening regional integration and connectivity with major European networks.
The plenary session will focus on the topic: “Corridor VIII at Europe’s Strategic Moment: Connectivity, Resilience through Military Mobility, and Shared Prosperity through Integration,” highlighting Corridor VIII’s role as a strategic pillar linking economic, security, and regional connectivity dimensions in pursuit of shared prosperity.
During the Ministerial, a joint declaration is expected to be adopted. The program also includes bilateral meetings and a joint press conference.
As part of the Ministerial, the Corridor VIII Economic Forum will be held at the Bank of Albania (Building No. 2, former Hotel Dajti), under the theme: “From Strategic Connectivity to Regional Economic Growth: The Economic Potential of Corridor VIII.”
The Economic Forum will bring together public authorities, European institutions, international financial bodies, and economic stakeholders to advance discussions on economic development, connectivity, and investment along Corridor VIII. Discussions will focus on trade facilitation and industrial development to enhance regional competitiveness. The Forum aims to mobilize European and international financing instruments and produce concrete recommendations to transform Corridor VIII into a catalyst for investment, growth, and regional economic integration.
