Date/Time
Date(s) - 18/06/2026
09:00 - 12:30
Location
Press Club Brussels Europe
Categories
This event will explore the opportunities and challenges facing Albanian universities in accessing and participating in EU research and innovation programs, particularly Horizon Europe.
As Albania advances in the EU accession process, strengthening capacities in research management, project development, international partnerships, and consortium-building is essential for aligning with EU priorities and deepening integration into the European Research Area. A key objective is to support Albania’s participation in European programs and position research and higher education as strategic drivers of the country’s European future.
Bringing together representatives of EU institutions, policymakers, academic leaders, researchers, and members of the Albanian scientific diaspora, the event will show how stronger cooperation can drive innovation, regional integration, and sustainable development across the Western Balkans. It will also highlight the Albanian diaspora’s role in advancing research excellence, internationalization, and access to European networks. In addition, leaders from Albanian universities will present ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s contribution to European research, cinnovation, and policy dialogue
9:00 Welcoming guests and registration
9:30 Welcome remarks by AADF Representative
Session I
9:40 Short speech and Q&A – Manuel Aleixo (Cabinet Expert, Cabinet of Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva responsible for Startups, Research and Innovation)
Session II
10:30 Remarks by AADF Co-CEO – Albanian American Development Foundation
10:45 Remarks by Deputy Head of Mission/Chargé d’affaires a.i., Ms. Admira Jorgji.
11:00 Short presentation of the BRIDGE by READ Project – Brixhilda Gurakuqi
11:10 Best practices from Albanian Diaspora experts
– Prof. Edlira Vakaj, Birmingham City University
– Prof. Valentina Ndou, University of Salento
11:30 “Unlocking European Research Opportunities for Albania: Strengthening University Participation through EU Funding, Partnerships and Diaspora Engagement” Round table with the Albanian Diaspora working in the European Parliament/DGs, Albanian Universities, Albanian Diaspora in Belgium, Embassy representatives, EU Institutions, NGOs. – Enrik Keco