Albania’s eu goal comes into sight

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Wednesday that Albania’s goal of joining the European Union is now “in sight,” describing the country as one of the front-runners in the bloc’s accession process.

Speaking alongside Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama in Tirana, von der Leyen praised what she called “remarkable progress” over the past year, including Albania’s opening of the final negotiating clusters and the closure of its first three chapters in July.

She said Albania is now fully aligned with the EU’s common foreign and security policy, reflecting what she described as close agreement between Tirana and the bloc on international affairs.

Further reforms needed

Von der Leyen stressed that significant work remains, particularly on justice reform, the electoral framework and environmental protection.

“Adopting the reforms is important, but it is, of course, also equally important to implement those reforms thoroughly,” she said, stressing that reforms must deliver tangible results for the Albanian people.

Rama reaffirmed what he called Albania’s “ironclad will” to meet the requirements of the accession process. He said the government is preparing to close additional negotiating chapters before the end of the year.

The prime minister also highlighted efforts against organized crime and corruption, saying Albania had moved from a system in which corruption was entrenched to one in which state institutions are increasingly fighting it.

More eu funding expected

Von der Leyen said Albania has completed more than 80% of the reform steps required under the EU’s Growth Plan. The country has already received €213 million in EU funding, with additional payments expected in the coming weeks.

She also announced that the European Commission will present its pre-enlargement policy reviews next week. The reviews will examine the EU’s institutions, policies and budget in preparation for possible future members.

“Accession will always remain merit-based, but merit-based does not mean slow,” von der Leyen said.

Source:AA