The leader of the Democratic Party, Sali Berisha, spoke at the forum of the International Democrat Union (IDU) in Zagreb, where he addressed Albania’s European Union integration process and the factors he claims are obstructing it.
He identified what he described as “electoral autocracy” and a “narco-state” as the main obstacles, arguing that these phenomena have negatively affected the country’s economy and democracy.
Berisha stated that European integration must be entirely merit-based, emphasizing that only such a process can bring citizens more rights, freedoms, rule of law, and prosperity.
“This process must, and absolutely must, be fully based on merit,” Berisha said, adding that public support in Albania for integration into the European Union and NATO remains very high, but the process has been delayed due to internal factors.
He also raised concerns about regional initiatives, which he claimed do not support European integration, as well as their impact on political developments in the Western Balkans.
Berisha further stated that the democratic process is closely linked to free elections and the possibility of power rotation, criticizing the political situation in Albania and mentioning the emigration of citizens. He concluded by stressing that without free and fair elections, there can be no democratic future for the country.
The forum was opened by the Chairman of the IDU and former Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper, together with the Prime Minister of Croatia, Andrej Plenković, who highlighted the importance of strengthening international cooperation in the face of security challenges, economic developments, and migration pressures.
The forum is also attended by former leaders and high-level political representatives from Europe and other countries, who are discussing key issues such as regional security, transatlantic relations, geopolitical influences, migration, and demographic developments.
The International Democrat Union (IDU) forum currently taking place in Zagreb is one of the most important gatherings of center-right parties at the international level, where political leaders from various countries are discussing global challenges and current geopolitical developments. It is considered a key platform for coordinating center-right positions worldwide.
The post Berisha at IDU Forum in Zagreb: Electoral Autocracy and “Narco-State” Hindering EU Integration appeared first on Euronews Albania.
