Before knocking on the doors of the European Union, Albania must be ready. For a "yes" instead of a "no", the country must first integrate institutionally and economically.
"In order to accept you into their fold, the European Union countries want to be clear that the state that becomes part of the European family is not a burden but will contribute with their economic capabilities. So it will bring value and not be a burden," said Endrit Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
With 5 open chapters and a series of reforms on the way, Albania is moving forward. The ambition is to successfully close all chapters by 2027. But in what direction is this ambition at risk?
"There is no big secret. As Prime Minister Edi Rama mentioned at UBT, Albania sometimes lags in terms of standards or food safety. But this does not mean that the food that Albanians eat is unsafe, it simply needs more rigorous certification," Yzeiraj explained.
Food security is not the only "next test" that Albania must pass. The country must regain the trust of the European Union in terms of the good management of the money that the latter gives it, writes A2 CNN.
"Despite all the problems that arise from time to time, Albania has been an initiator and one of the most committed countries in the implementation of the New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. The integration process is complex, and naturally there are moments when there are reviews or temporary suspensions of funds from the European Union. But these are part of a control process and do not constitute a punishment. We are committed to improving our capacities and meeting every standard that the EU requires", said the Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
"We have an extraordinary alliance with Italy, a historical partner and a steadfast supporter of Albania's European integration. Likewise, Greece has shown clear political will to see Albania part of the European Union. Germany, of course, remains one of the main pillars of the enlargement process and a very important supporter of our European journey," said Yzeiraj.
At the end of the day, European integration is not just a bureaucratic process or a list of demands. It is a challenge to build the Albania we want, a country with strong institutions, a dynamic economy and standards that protect every citizen. Every step we take, every reform we implement, is a cornerstone towards a future where the door of the European Union will no longer be a knock, but a sure opening. (A2 Televizion)
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