TIRANA, April 30 – Slovakia’s Foreign and European Affairs Minister Juraj Blanar said European Union enlargement remains a strategic priority. He spoke at a joint press conference with Albania’s Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha, Austria’s Beate Meinl-Reisinger, and the Czech Republic’s Petr Macinka.
Blanár described the meeting as useful and necessary. He said the European perspective of the Western Balkans has been clear since the 2003 Thessaloniki Summit. He added that current geopolitical developments make enlargement more urgent.
He said enlargement strengthens security, stability, and prosperity across Europe. He also said the process helps shape geopolitical developments in a positive direction.
On Albania, Blanár praised progress in reforms and societal transformation. He said the country can become an example for other candidates. He urged Albania to play a motivating role in the region and stressed the importance of strengthening the rule of law.
Blanar said Slovakia is ready to support Albania in its EU negotiations. He said sharing expertise can help speed up the process. He added that the merit-based principle must guide enlargement and that all EU member states must agree on full and earned membership.
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