TIRANA, June 26 – Former French President François Hollande said Albania remains on course to join the European Union by 2030. He made the remarks in an interview with Top Channel. Hollande recalled that France recognized Albania as a candidate country during his presidency.
Meanwhile, he said Albania has made steady progress over the years. He noted that authorities have completed key stages and opened accession chapters. Hollande added that the European Union and the Albanian government continue work on the remaining requirements. He also said ratification procedures must follow.
However, Hollande acknowledged that many Albanians expected a faster process. He stressed that European procedures require time. He added that those rules would strengthen Albania before membership.
In addition, Hollande supported the French-German proposal for gradual integration of the Western Balkans. He said the plan would allow prepared candidate countries to join discussions in policy areas linked to accession before full membership. He stressed that the proposal must support accession rather than replace it.
At the same time, Hollande said Albania and Montenegro remain ahead of Ukraine and Moldova in the accession process. He added that recent geopolitical developments have reinforced support for their membership. He also said the European Union needs the Western Balkans to strengthen regional stability, reduce foreign interference and reinforce European security.
Finally, Hollande described relations between Albania and France as strong cultural and human ties. He added that both countries support pluralism in Europe. He said Albania’s future membership would strengthen democracy within the European Union.
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