In Tirana, Albania’s capital, the European Union’s chief diplomat praised Albania’s determination to conclude full membership discussions within the next two years. Despite acknowledging the challenging nature of necessary reforms, Albania’s political factions were encouraged to support and advance these initiatives as the nation seeks EU membership.
Kaja Kallas, on a regional tour, reassured Tirana’s leaders of Albania’s future place in the European Union. “Albania has an ambitious agenda to close EU negotiations in the next two years,” she declared during a press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama. “It’s vital to sustain the high pace of reforms,” she acknowledged while understanding the intricate difficulties of these changes.
The European Union’s decision from 2020 initiated full membership talks with Albania, addressing key areas including legal frameworks, democratic institutions, and efforts against corruption. The Western Balkans, comprising Albania, Bosnia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, are at varying stages in their EU membership pursuits. Although these nations have been disheartened by slow progress, the European surge to include these countries gained urgency after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Kallas remarked, “Your decision to fully implement EU sanctions against Russia alongside your political, military, and humanitarian support to Ukraine demonstrates your commitment to our shared values.” Edi Rama expressed his hopes to finalize the EU negotiation process by 2027 and achieve full membership by 2030, stating, “We will not rest until we step into the door of the European Union, and sit around the same table that the European Union does.”
Albania is integrated into the EU growth strategy, with expectations to receive over 920 million euros (approximately $1 billion) over the following decade. Concurrently, Albania secured a 90 million-euro ($98 million) deal with the European Investment Bank to upgrade the railway connecting the port of Durres and Rrogozhine, a project declared crucial for military movement between Member States and NATO amid current security concerns.
The railway initiative, backed by a 60.5 million-euro grant from the Western Balkans Investment Framework and a 30 million-euro loan from EIB Global, requires an 121 million-euro investment. An additional 30 million euros in co-financing will be provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. The project promises enhanced and safer passenger and freight transportation, contributing to both regional integration and economic growth, according to available statements.
In Albania’s upcoming parliamentary elections on May 11, the ruling left-wing Socialist Party has prioritized EU membership. However, the opposition charges the Socialists with corruption and highlights ineffective advancements. Kallas, having visited Montenegro previously, concluded her regional tour with a stop in Bosnia.