TIRANA, May 4 – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said Albania’s EU accession process continues normally. He rejected claims of any blockage or veto from member states.
He made the remarks during a hearing in the Committee for Europe and Foreign Affairs on the IBAR report and negotiation progress. Hoxha described the process as complex. However, he stressed its structured and merit-based nature, focused on concrete results and reforms.
Meanwhile, he highlighted rapid progress in a short period. On 13 October 2024, Albania had not opened any negotiation chapters. By 17 November 2025, it had opened all 33 chapters.
He described this as an unprecedented pace.
In addition, he referred to the European Commission enlargement methodology. It sets 24 interim benchmarks and 92 concrete measures. He said Albania worked intensively on them during 2025–2026.
The IBAR report reflects this progress. The European Commission prepared it. It submitted it to the Council of the European Union.
At the same time, the Commission issued positive recommendations. It also confirmed Albania’s fulfilment of commitments.
Hoxha dismissed claims of blockage or veto. He said the process continues as planned.
He noted that the EU Delegation in Tirana confirmed this position publicly. He also referred to positive assessments from Commissioner Kos and High Representative Kallas.
Meanwhile, he said the pace of negotiations depends on the EU Presidency and member states. He stressed the need for continued focus on results and reforms.
He called for sustained progress, patience, and determination. He underlined reforms, rule of law, and institutional strengthening.
Finally, he reaffirmed Albania’s goal of EU membership by 2030. He said the country will continue meeting accession obligations. He also noted international support, including recent visits by EU foreign ministers to Tirana.
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