TIRANA, Aug 26 /ATA/ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, Tanja Fajon, stated on Monday that Slovenia will support Albania on its path to the European Union accession.
In her remarks, at the panel “The Journey and Dynamics of the EU Integration Process”, which was held in the framework of the 3-day ambassadors’ conference that started today, in Tirana “Tirana Diplo 2024”, Fajon said that there is a great opportunity now to work hard for EU enlargement with the Western Balkan countries.
“I have long been a proponent of the EU enlargement. I think now is the best chance once again to work hard for enlargement of the European Union with the Balkan countries. Albania is on the right track,” she said.
Fajon brought to attention the statements of the European Council President Charles Michel last year, who mentioned 2030 as an opportunity for membership.
“Last year, Michael said something very important. He cited 2030 as a commitment from the Bled Forum.We have a chance, because of the Russian war in Ukraine, we want to make Europe stronger. Let’s hit the ground running on our side and on the EU side for 2030. It may be a chance if all stakeholders, politicians and our society are taking this seriously. Moving ahead on this road, I am sure this is what we will fight for, will make some countries part of the EU in a few years”, Fajon said.
She assessed that the European Commission’s Growth Plan will deliver a positive impact in this regard.
“This plan that the Commission has come up with presents opportunities, and I know that Albania has drawn up a good reform agenda. In September we will have the Commission’s assessment of this reform agenda and I hope that Albania will receive the first financial support, because they are necessary for reforms, but also for opening doors to the single market, step by step” said among others.
Furthermore, the Slovenian chief diplomat stressed the need for cooperation between countries in the region, so that the region is stable, peaceful and works together especially for the younger generation.
“Our young people are leaving because they don’t see a good vision and they don’t see good prospects, and if young people leave then the country doesn’t have a good future. We have a great responsibility in the region to keep up working for peace, security, economic perspective and a good vision for the future.”
Also, Fajon also commended Albania’s work in the Security Council as Slovenia prepares to assume the presidency this September.
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