European Union’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas visited Albania to meet with the country’s leadership and praised their “ambitious” agenda to close full membership negotiations within two years. Kallas encouraged Albania’s political parties to support the difficult reforms needed to align with the EU on issues such as the rule of law, democratic institutions, and tackling corruption.
During a press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama, Kallas emphasized that Albania’s future lies within the EU. She commended Albania’s commitment to EU values, citing their full implementation of EU sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine.
Albania began full membership negotiations with the EU in 2020, with talks focusing on reforms and alignment with EU standards. This progress has been part of the EU’s push for Western Balkan countries to join the bloc, with Albania aiming to become a member by 2030.
As part of the EU’s growth plan, Albania is expected to receive over €920 million in funding over the next decade. Additionally, Albania signed a €90 million agreement with the European Investment Bank for the reconstruction of the railway between Durres and Rrogozhine, which is seen as crucial for military mobility in southeast Europe.
Prime Minister Rama has made EU membership a key goal for his governing Socialist Party, with parliamentary elections scheduled for May 11. Kallas also visited Montenegro and will end her tour with a trip to Bosnia, highlighting the EU’s commitment to the Western Balkans’ integration into the bloc.
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