Tirana, 16 May 2025 (dpa/MIA) - European leaders are to meet in Tirana on Friday to address the continent's most pressing issues including the war in Ukraine, migration and competitiveness.

More than 40 leaders are invited to the Albanian capital for the sixth meeting of the European Political Community (EPC).

Co-hosted by Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and European Council President António Costa, leaders are to discuss security challenges, innovation and economic resilience, as well as migration and opportunities for the youth.

It will be German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's first major summit since taking office last week.

The EPC was pushed by French President Emmanuel Macron in the wake of Russia’s assault on Ukraine to foster dialogue and cooperation between European countries beyond the borders of the European Union and without the pomp of state visits.

EPC leaders first met in October 2022 in Prague, and last gathered in Budapest in November 2024. Russia and Belarus are not invited to the gatherings.

Photo: Rama Facebook/Leyen X