The European Union follows developments in Albania closely, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said on Thursday.
Speaking at a press conference with journalists from EU member states, Hoxha addressed concerns over the proposed project in Zvërnec. He also commented on the European Commission’s reaction and recent protests against the development.
Hoxha stressed that Chapter 27 on the environment remains one of the most demanding chapters in Albania’s EU accession talks.
“Chapter 27 ranks among the most important and challenging chapters,” Hoxha said.
He said Albanian institutions continue to work on meeting EU requirements. He added that negotiating teams are advancing preparations and will present results when the chapter reaches the closing stage.
At the same time, Hoxha referred to the European Commission’s comments on the Zvërnec project. He said the Commission continues to monitor the situation, as it does with all major developments in Albania.
“The Commission mentioned potential consequences and said it would continue to follow developments,” Hoxha said.
Moreover, he stressed that Albania and the EU maintain constant communication throughout the negotiation process.
“The EU pays attention to everything that happens in Albania because we are negotiating membership and working closely together,” he said.
Hoxha also underlined that Albanian institutions communicate directly with EU counterparts through official channels.
Meanwhile, the minister highlighted tourism’s importance to the Albanian economy. He said authorities want to develop the Zvërnec area while fully respecting legal and environmental obligations.
“We want to develop a project there because tourism is one of Albania’s key industries,” Hoxha said.
However, he stressed that authorities will implement any project in line with Albanian laws, EU standards and accession requirements.
“Every step must comply with the rules and criteria of the EU integration process,” he added.
Regarding the protests, Hoxha rejected suggestions that demonstrators oppose Albania’s EU path. Instead, he described the protests as a normal expression of democratic freedoms.
“I do not see these protests as opposition to the accession process,” Hoxha said.
He added that citizens, especially young people, want to express their views and take part in public debate.
“They use their democratic right to speak out and make their voices heard,” he said.
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