TIRANA, Feb 19 /ATA/ The European Parliament welcomed Albania’s sustained commitment to its EU accession process, as outlined in the draft report prepared by the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, which assesses the country’s progress.
The document emphasizes that EU enlargement remains a strategic investment for peace, security, and democratic development on the continent, while Albania is praised for its clear strategic orientation towards membership and full alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy.
The draft report highlights that Albania, a candidate country since 2014, has opened all negotiation chapters within a 13-month period and aims to conclude them by the end of 2027.
However, it is stressed that progress should be accompanied by the comprehensive and consistent implementation of reforms, going beyond the mere formal adoption of legislation.
Regarding the parliamentary elections of May 11, 2025, the report refers to the findings of the OSCE/ODIHR observation mission, assessing that the legal framework is broadly suitable for competitive elections. The deputies call for a comprehensive electoral reform, in collaboration with civil society, and for the full implementation of outstanding recommendations.
In the field of the rule of law, the document welcomes the continuation of the justice reform and the process of re-evaluating judges and prosecutors, but highlights ongoing challenges related to the efficiency of the judiciary, the backlog of cases, and the need to strengthen institutional independence.
The fight against corruption and organized crime remains a priority, with a particular emphasis on investigations and convictions for high-level corruption.
The report raises concern over political polarization and divisive discourse, calling for a strengthening of the Parliament’s oversight role and increased transparency in legislative processes.
Additional efforts are also required to protect media freedom, pluralism, and fundamental rights, including the protection of minorities and vulnerable groups.
In the socio-economic aspect, the draft welcomes Albania’s commitment under the Western Balkans Growth Plan but notes structural weaknesses in the economy, informality, and a lack of progress in the areas of environment and climate change over the past year.
The deputies also commend Albania’s full alignment with the EU’s foreign policy and its constructive role in regional stability, emphasizing the importance of good neighborly relations.
According to the draft, EU financial support through the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) and the Reform and Growth Mechanism should remain closely tied to concrete results and the effective implementation of reforms.
The resolution is expected to be forwarded to EU institutions and Albanian authorities after its final approval.
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