Balla: Albania Can Close EU Negotiations by Next Christmas

Taulant Balla said that Albania is advancing at record speed in its EU integration process during a meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Europe and Foreign Affairs in Tirana.

He stated that the country could complete accession negotiations with the European Union by next Christmas.

In addition, Balla praised the work of the negotiation team and the chief negotiator, calling the goal ambitious but achievable.

He also emphasized that Parliament plays a key role in meeting deadlines and passing laws aligned with EU legislation.

Furthermore, he responded to opposition criticism about transparency, stating that all draft laws are published on the Parliament’s official website along with EU alignment tables.

Balla urged opposition MPs to support the integration process. “A green vote is enough for Albania and for EU membership,” he said.

Moreover, he cited positive assessments from EU officials. He referred to Commissioner Marta Kos, who described Albania as a strong example of transformation through enlargement.

He also mentioned EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, who suggested Albania could prepare candidates for the 2029 European Parliament elections.

Finally, Balla highlighted the European Parliament’s AFET report, which ranks Albania among the most advanced enlargement countries, noting that EU presidencies have also positively assessed its progress.

/a.c/

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