TIRANA, March 31 /ATA/ – The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha, also a former head of Albania’s Mission to the European Union (EU), stated Tuesday that the country’s European Union accession process is not blocked, adding that Tirana is at its most advanced stage yet in negotiations, though final decisions lie with member states.
Speaking to Top Channel television, Hoxha rejected claims that progress in closing negotiation chapters with the European Commission had stalled.
“The process cannot in any way be described as blocked,” he said, citing direct knowledge of developments. “EU accession negotiations are inherently complex – both technical and political – and follow their own pace. They require time, consistency and, above all, tangible and verifiable results.”
Albania is widely viewed by its European partners as a frontrunner in the enlargement process, he said, pointing to what he described as rapid and sustained progress in opening chapters and meeting reform commitments.
He said ongoing discussions in Brussels, including those related to the IBAR assessment, should not be seen as obstacles but as safeguards to ensure the quality and credibility of reforms and of the EU’s enlargement process.
Addressing opposition criticism, Hoxha said Albania is the first – and so far the only – country to undergo the IBAR process under the EU’s revised methodology, which requires candidates to pass the assessment before moving to the chapter-closing phase.
“Being first inevitably makes us a reference point for how this methodology functions,” he said.
Over the past year, Albania has made what Hoxha called an unprecedented effort to address 92 identified gaps under Chapters 23 and 24, part of the “fundamentals” cluster covering rule of law and governance – the core of the IBAR review.
“This is not merely a technical figure, but evidence of deep reforms spanning the judiciary, public administration, the fight against illegality, the rule of law, as well as human rights and fundamental freedoms,” he said, adding that the country has moved beyond declarative commitments to delivering measurable results.
He noted that the report’s consideration by the Council of the European Union indicates it is regarded as credible, describing member states’ scrutiny as a standard and necessary part of the process.
“What we are seeing is a normal and expected phase, consistent with Albania’s current level of advancement,” he said.
Hoxha said Albania has established itself as a reliable and predictable partner, reflected in the support it receives across EU institutions and member states.
The accession process is now more consolidated than ever, he added, with reforms guided by structured plans, clear timelines and efforts to align legislation and strengthen institutions.
“This is an irreversible process – not merely a political objective, but a profound transformation of the state and society,” he said.
Asked when the IBAR report might be approved, Hoxha said no timeline could be given, as the decision rests with EU member states.
“This is a merit-based process, and the path forward depends on deep reforms and concrete results,” he said. “What I can confidently say is that Albania is on the right track.”
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