Albania Economia
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The Italian Senate has officially ratified a historic social security agreement with Albania, ensuring that workers who have contributed to both pension systems can merge their contributions and secure retirement benefits. After more than 15 years of negotiations, this milestone strengthens the legal and economic ties between the two nations, benefiting thousands of Albanians in Italy and Italian workers in Albania.
After decades of efforts, the Italian Senate officially ratified the bill on March 5, 2025, finalizing the path towards unified social security contributions. The law guarantees that workers who have contributed in both Albania and Italy will have their periods of contribution merged, ensuring they can receive pensions from both countries, based on the total amount of work completed.
The agreement comes as a response to the needs of over 500,000 Albanians living and working in Italy, and about 4,000 Italians in Albania, who have long contributed to the social security systems of their respective countries. It covers various types of pensions, including old-age pensions, disability pensions, family pensions, maternity benefits, and unemployment insurance.
Statements from officials
Following the signing of the agreement, Igli Hasani, Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, described the moment as a historic achievement. “It’s a very important moment for all Albanians who have contributed to Italy over the years, but also for Italians working in our country. Fifteen years of important efforts have led to today’s agreement,” Hasani said.
Antonio Tajani, Italy’s Foreign Minister, also highlighted the significance of the deal. “This is an important agreement that we have been waiting for over 15 years. It guarantees the pension rights of both Italian employees in Albania and Albanians in Italy, offering many people security for the future,” Tajani noted.
Key benefits of the agreement
- Pension Security: workers in both countries will benefit from unified pension recognition, with no lost years of contributions.
- Eligibility for Multiple Benefits: the agreement ensures that old-age pensions, disability benefits, family pensions, sickness benefits, and unemployment insurance are available to eligible workers.
- Wider Coverage: the law will benefit over 500,000 Albanians in Italy and around 4,000 Italians in Albania, providing them with an added layer of social security.
Political importance
The agreement is seen as a reflection of the strong political and economic ties between Italy and Albania. It represents a historic step towards deeper social and labor cooperation between the two nations, ensuring that citizens who move and work across borders are not deprived of their pension rights.
The Albania-Italy pension agreement not only protects the rights of workers but also fosters a stronger bond between the two countries. It underscores the importance of international cooperation in the modern, interconnected labor market and guarantees that workers’ contributions will be recognized, no matter where they work.
