European Council President Antonio Costa was in Tirana on Tuesday, where he held a joint press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama. Costa stated that EU member states have viewed Albania’s progress in the accession process positively.
He also emphasized that Albania must intensify its efforts in the fight against corruption and organized crime, identifying these areas as key requirements for EU membership.
“Last week’s Accession Conference confirmed your progress, as Albania has met the interim benchmarks in the first cluster of the ‘Fundamentals.’ This is a clear recognition by the Member States of Albania’s commitment to advancing further on its path toward European Union membership. It marks the beginning of another challenging phase in the process, one focused on implementation and building a sustained track record of success.
As you often say, these reforms are not merely conditions imposed by the European Union; they are your own choice to build strong democratic institutions in Albania. Continued and tangible political commitment to the rule of law, as well as the preservation of an independent and accountable judiciary, are essential foundations for EU membership. I encourage you to step up your efforts in the fight against corruption and organized crime.
The European Union is the Western Balkans’ and Albania’s most reliable partner, as well as its main investor and trading partner. The EU supports Albania’s prosperity and security through concrete projects and policies that directly benefit your citizens. For example, Albania now has access to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), is gradually integrating into the EU Single Market, and is benefiting from initiatives such as the ‘Roam Like at Home’ scheme and the DiscoverEU rail travel programme.
However, EU membership is about more than access to the Single Market. It means joining a political union built on shared values and common strategic choices. The European Union has created lasting peace and stability for its Member States through resilient democratic institutions and strong economic ties. Enlargement offers the same opportunities to our European neighbours – including Albania,” Costa said.
The post “Enlargement Is a Necessity”: Antonio Costa Says Rule of Law and Judicial Independence Are Essential for EU Membership appeared first on Euronews Albania.
