In a social media post on Tuesday, Bardhi said Italy remains one of Albania’s strongest allies on its European path.

The opposition lawmakers reiterated the Democratic Party’s support for any process that brings Albania closer to the European Union.

“For us, European integration is not a political slogan, but a process that requires real commitment, deep reforms and sustainable democratic standards,” Bardhi said.

However, he added that “developments in Albania are moving in the opposite direction,” arguing that “propaganda is prevailing while democratic standards are being undermined.”

Bardhi alleged violations of human rights and said corruption remains widespread and politically protected by the governing majority, saying “this is harming Albania’s EU accession path.”

Bardhi stressed that Albania has the potential to do more, adding that citizens “deserve more” and that it is the responsibility of politicians to make this a reality.

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In a post on social media, Peleshi appreciated the support that Italy gives to Albania on the path of Euro-Atlantic integration.

He wrote that the meeting focused on the challenges facing the Western Balkan region and Albania’s commitment to the territorial integrity of Kosovo.

“Friendly meeting with Stefania Craxi, chairperson of the Defense and Foreign Affairs Committee of the Italian Senate. We discussed the strong ties between Albania and Italy, as well as the challenges facing the region, and I reaffirmed our country’s commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Kosovo. I expressed my gratitude for Italy’s support on Albania’s path towards Euro-Atlantic integration by receiving the guarantee of Mrs. Craxi that Italy will continue to tirelessly support Albania and work for security in the Western Balkans,” wrote Peleshi./p.s./