TIRANA, Oct 22 /ATA/- The United States will continue to strongly support Albania’s efforts to join the European Union, which, like Albania’s successful effort to join NATO, is an important strategic goal that requires the contribution of ideas and efforts by all parties, the US Ambassador to Albania, Yuri Kim said after the meeting with the chairmen of the Parliamentary Committee on European Integration, Chairwoman Jorida Tabaku and Deputy Chairwoman Etilda Gjonaj.
“Few things are more important for the future of Albania than its EU integration. The meeting focused on the progress report of the European Commission for 2021, which notes that Albania continues to meet the conditions for the opening of membership negotiations and has made steady progress on the path of European Union reform, as well as areas of which require further attention,” according to the statement of the US Embassy in Tirana.
“President Biden and Secretary Blinken have emphasized that the United States strongly believes Albania belongs in the European Union and that accession negotiations should begin as soon as possible. We believe the EU accession process helps consolidate democratic institutions, protect fundamental rights, and advance the rule of law in Albania, and enhances stability and contributes to prosperity for the people of the region,” US Ambassador Kim said.
Ambassador Kim welcomed the Commission’s determination to strengthen accountability of government actions, inform the public, and accelerate progress toward meeting EU standards, including on rule of law, justice reform, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering measures in accordance with FATF recommendation, and electoral reform in accordance with ODIHR recommendations.
She reiterated that the United States will continue to strongly support Albania’s efforts to join the EU, which – like Albania’s successful bid to join NATO – is an important strategic goal that requires the contribution of ideas and efforts by all sides. //a.i/
