TIRANA, March 11 /ATA/Silvio Gonzato, the European Union Ambassador to Albania, stated on Tuesday, “We support Albania’s ambitious goal of opening all negotiation chapters by the end of 2027.”
During his speech at the National Council for European Integration meeting, Gonzato stated, “The EU delegation will provide support in this regard and will closely monitor your progress.”
Gonzato went on saying, “We have made progress in the negotiation process with the EU. Negotiations have been opened for Cluster 1, the Fundamentals, and Cluster 6 on External Relations.”
Gonzato highlighted, “Albania is currently working to meet the interim benchmarks for Cluster 1. This is a critical area in terms of the negotiation momentum. The opening of negotiations for Cluster 2, covering the internal market, and Cluster 3 on competitiveness and inclusive growth is nearly within reach.
Gonzato mentioned, “Ten days ago, Albania presented its negotiating position to the EU Council, and the EU is now preparing its own position to organize the next intergovernmental conference as quickly as possible.”
“Of course, we hope that all clusters will be opened this year. However, the real challenge is not just opening the chapters and negotiating them, but implementing the necessary reforms to ensure that Albania’s legislation is fully aligned with that of the European Union in all areas,” said Gonzato.
Gonzato further stated, “There is no time to lose, and the EU delegation is ready to support the Parliament in achieving this. The Parliament has committed to improving its internal functioning. Due to the roadmap for the proper functioning of democratic institutions, the Parliament has committed to enhancing transparency and accountability in its work, integrity, and improving accessibility for citizens and NGOs. The Parliament plays a more responsible role in promoting debate throughout the country and fostering consensus in Albania on the EU integration agenda.”
“As Commissioner Marta Kos has often said, and will say again during her visit at the end of this week, this process is important. It’s not just about accountability, but also about other factors,” he said while also congratulating Tabaku for her efforts.
Gonzato remarked, “I also appreciate the attention given today to EU legislation on anti-discrimination. Equality is a core principle of the EU, enshrined in the treaties and our Charter of Fundamental Rights, and it grants the EU both the mandate and the responsibility to fight discrimination.” /k.s/j.p/sm/
