The European Union’s enlargement commissioner, Marta Kos, visited Albania to commend the country’s progress in its EU membership negotiations. During her visit, she emphasized the importance of implementing necessary reforms and assured Albania of continued EU support, highlighting the potential for significant financial aid to facilitate this process.
Key Takeaways
- EU Commissioner Marta Kos praised Albania’s progress and regional cooperation.
- Albania is set to receive over €920 million ($1 billion) to support reforms.
- The EU aims to conclude membership negotiations with Albania by 2027.
- Focus on implementing reforms, particularly in the justice sector, is crucial.
- Upcoming parliamentary elections in Albania are not expected to hinder EU integration efforts.
Albania’s Progress Towards EU Membership
Marta Kos, the EU’s enlargement commissioner, visited Tirana, Albania’s capital, to meet with Prime Minister Edi Rama and other leaders. She acknowledged Albania’s advancements in its EU membership journey, referring to the country as a “champion” of regional cooperation. Kos stated, "The EU is for sure, and it is happening and it is real," reinforcing the EU’s commitment to Albania’s integration.
The EU had initiated full membership negotiations with Albania in 2020, with discussions commencing last October. These negotiations focus on aligning Albania with EU standards regarding the rule of law, democratic institutions, and anti-corruption measures. Kos’s visit comes at a pivotal time as Albania’s parliament is expected to ratify two key documents that will unlock over €920 million in funding under the EU’s growth plan.
Financial Support for Reforms
The financial aid from the EU is intended to prepare Albania for EU membership. Kos highlighted that this funding would enable the country to implement necessary reforms effectively. The support is part of a broader strategy to ensure that Albania is ready to meet the EU’s membership criteria.
The Road Ahead
Prime Minister Edi Rama expressed optimism about completing the negotiation process by 2027, with hopes for Albania to officially join the EU by 2030. Kos emphasized that the focus must now shift to the implementation of reforms already adopted, particularly in the justice sector, which she described as a cornerstone of the EU integration process.
Kos also noted that the upcoming parliamentary elections in Albania, scheduled for May 11, should not impede the progress of EU negotiations. She stated, "The reforms are not because of the European Union. The reforms are because of the transformation process here in Albania."
Regional Cooperation and Security
Kos praised Albania for its alignment with EU security and foreign policy, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation in the Western Balkans. The EU’s commitment to the region has been reinforced by geopolitical developments, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has prompted European leaders to expedite the integration of Western Balkan countries into the EU.
In a significant move, the European Parliament plans to open a regional office in Tirana, further solidifying the EU’s presence and support in Albania. Kos concluded her visit by reiterating that Albania’s unity towards EU membership is vital for peace, freedom, and security in the region.
Sources
- EU’s enlargement commissioner urges Albania to focus on reforms in membership talks update, Yahoo.
- Albanian Daily News, Albanian Daily News.
- EU’s enlargement commissioner urges Albania to focus on reforms in membership talks update, WRAL.com.
- EU’s enlargement commissioner urges Albania to focus on reforms in membership talks update, The Spec.
