Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, met with Edi Rama, the Prime Minister of Albania, on March 31, 2024, in Tirana to discuss ways to enhance bilateral relations and expand cooperation between the two nations.

They focused on sectors of mutual interest, including economy, trade, renewable energy, food security, and technology.

During their meeting, Prime Minister Rama expressed Albania's commitment to advancing its relationship with the UAE and seizing available opportunities for collaboration.

The discussions covered various regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Sheikh Mohamed emphasized the UAE's support for achieving peace and stability in the Balkans, underlining the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomatic means.

He noted the significance of such efforts for the region's development, prosperity, and global security.

Reportedly, trade between the UAE and Albania experienced significant growth, with non-oil trade rising by 129.4% in 2024 compared to 2023. Sheikh Mohamed pointed to collaborative prospects in renewable and clean energy, which align with both countries’ sustainability goals, expressing a desire to further enhance cooperation in this area.

At the conclusion of their meeting, the two leaders exchanged a framework agreement involving the UAE’s Masdar, Albania's energy company KESH, and the country's transmission system operator, OST.

This agreement follows a strategic partnership memorandum aimed at developing cross-border clean energy projects among the UAE, Italy, and Albania.

The agreement seeks to bolster collaboration in renewable energy projects and infrastructure development, which will enhance energy security and promote sustainable development across the Mediterranean region.

Additionally, a partnership letter was exchanged between the UAE's Braisight company and Albania's Ministry of Interior to implement a smart city project that utilizes artificial intelligence technologies.

This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and enhance public service delivery.

The agreements were signed by Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Albanian Deputy Prime Minister Blenda Baluku, along with Minister of Interior Ervin Hoxha.

Prime Minister Rama also hosted a state dinner in honor of Sheikh Mohamed and his accompanying delegation.

Earlier that day, Sheikh Mohamed arrived at the Albanian presidential palace where the national anthems of both countries were performed, followed by a guard of honor ceremony in his honor.

The delegation accompanying Sheikh Mohamed comprised several dignitaries, including Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Head of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Advisor to the President; Ali bin Hamad Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Supreme National Security Council; Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation; Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, and UAE Ambassador to Albania, Ali Al Dhaheri.