TIRANA, April 30 /ATA/ – Austria’s Federal Minister for European and International Affairs, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, said on Thursday Albania is making significant progress towards European Union membership, describing the process as advancing at a steady pace.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Tirana with Albania’s Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha, Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka and Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár, she said the visit signalled strong support for Albania’s EU path.
Reisinger stressed that the EU cannot be considered complete without the Western Balkans, linking the region’s stability and development directly to Europe’s own security and prosperity.
“Enlargement is not a favour to candidate countries, but one of the smartest investments Europe can make,” she said, citing Austria’s gains from previous EU expansions, including increased exports and job creation.
Austria is among the leading investors in Albania, with around 50 Austrian companies operating in the country, she added, noting strong interest in deepening economic ties. She also highlighted renewable energy projects, including plans for Albania’s first wind farm, as examples of tangible benefits from European partnership.
Reisinger called for continued reforms, particularly in strengthening the rule of law and tackling corruption, describing the current moment as decisive for Europe and voicing hope for further progress in accession talks.
“Albania has made significant strides towards EU membership and must maintain the pace of reform,” she said.
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