# Ilir Meta

> President of Albania from 2017 to 2022

**Wikidata**: [Q727132](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q727132)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilir_Meta)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ilir-meta

## Summary
Ilir Meta is a politician and diplomat from Albania who served as the President of Albania from 2017 to 2022. He is known for his leadership during a period of political transition and international engagement for Albania.

## Biography
- Born: March 24, 1969
- Nationality: Albanian
- Education: University of Tirana
- Known for: Leading Albania as its fifth president and promoting diplomatic and political reforms
- Employer(s): Government of Albania
- Field(s): Politics, diplomacy

## Contributions
Ilir Meta served as the President of Albania from 2017 to 2022, overseeing key political and diplomatic transitions for the country. During his presidency, Albania joined NATO in 2009 and continued its integration into international organizations. Meta also worked to strengthen Albania's democratic institutions and promote economic reforms.

## FAQs
**What was Ilir Meta's role in Albania's political history?**
Ilir Meta served as the President of Albania from 2017 to 2022, leading the country during a period of significant political and diplomatic reforms.

**Where did Ilir Meta study?**
Ilir Meta attended the University of Tirana, where he earned his education.

**What international organizations was Albania involved in during Ilir Meta's presidency?**
During Meta's presidency, Albania joined NATO in 2009 and became an active member of the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and other international bodies.

**What was Ilir Meta's background before becoming president?**
Before becoming president, Ilir Meta was a diplomat and held various political roles in Albania, including ambassador to the United Nations.

## Why They Matter
Ilir Meta's presidency marked a significant period in Albania's political history, as the country continued its integration into international institutions and strengthened its democratic foundations. His leadership helped shape Albania's role in regional and global affairs, particularly in the Balkans. Meta's work contributed to Albania's stability and its growing influence in the European and international community.

## Notable For
- Served as the fifth President of Albania from 2017 to 2022
- Led Albania during its NATO membership and continued diplomatic engagement
- Promoted political and economic reforms during his presidency
- Received the Grand Order of King Tomislav for his contributions to Albania and international relations

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Ilir Meta was born on March 24, 1969. He attended the University of Tirana, where he earned his education. His academic background laid the foundation for his later political career.

### Political Career
Ilir Meta began his political career as a diplomat, serving in various roles, including ambassador to the United Nations. His diplomatic experience prepared him for leadership in Albania's political sphere.

### Presidency of Albania
Ilir Meta was elected as the President of Albania in 2017, succeeding Bujar Nishani. His presidency lasted until 2022, during which he focused on political and diplomatic reforms. Albania joined NATO in 2009 under Meta's leadership, marking a significant milestone in the country's foreign policy.

### International Relations
During Meta's presidency, Albania maintained strong diplomatic relations with numerous countries, including the United States, Germany, and Italy. He worked to strengthen Albania's ties with the European Union and other international organizations.

### Legacy
Ilir Meta's presidency left a lasting impact on Albania's political and diplomatic landscape. His leadership helped shape the country's role in regional and global affairs, particularly in the Balkans. Meta's work contributed to Albania's stability and its growing influence in the international community.

## References

1. Munzinger Personen
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. BBC Things
4. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line