European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen today called on Albania to maintain its focus on reforms. She stressed that the European integration process still requires further work.

At a joint press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama, von der Leyen said Albania must continue reforms across all open negotiation chapters.

“However, now is the time to maintain our focus because there is still work ahead. This brings me to my second message,” she said.

In particular, von der Leyen highlighted several areas that require further reforms. They include the judiciary, the electoral framework and environmental protection.

“We need further reforms across all the open chapters. You know which ones they are: the judiciary, the electoral framework and environmental protection, which protects Albania’s breathtaking nature,” the European Commission president said.

At the same time, von der Leyen stressed that Albania must fully implement the reforms after adopting them.

“Adopting reforms is important, but implementing them fully is equally important. This will ensure that they bring real change to the people of Albania,” she said.

Furthermore, von der Leyen said Albania needs commitment beyond political divisions. She also called for continued dialogue with society.

“This requires genuine commitment beyond political divisions, as well as strong and continuous dialogue with society to address all of its concerns,” she said.

/a.c/