Speaking at a joint news conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama, von der Leyen said Albania needed to continue implementing reforms across all open negotiating chapters.

“However, now is the time to maintain this focus because there is still work ahead. This brings me to my second message,” she said.

Von der Leyen identified justice, the electoral framework and environmental protection as areas requiring further reforms.

“Further reforms are needed across all open chapters. You know which ones they are: justice, the electoral framework, environmental protection – the breathtaking, extraordinary nature of Albania,” she said.

She stressed that adopting reforms was only part of the process and that their full implementation was equally important.

“Adopting reforms is important, but it is equally important that these reforms are fully implemented, ensuring that they bring real change for the citizens of Albania,” von der Leyen said.

She said this required genuine commitment beyond political divisions, as well as sustained dialogue with civil society to address its concerns.

“This requires genuine commitment beyond political divisions, as well as strong and continuous dialogue with society to respond to all of society’s concerns,” she said.

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Denaj stated that this meeting is an important moment in the country’s commitment on the path ahead.
An open discussion was held with the Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Albania, Andrea Ferrero, EU delegation representatives, the Head of German Development Cooperation, Iven Schad, and other partners, focusing on the progress of cooperation so far and the steps to enhance it further.

Minister Denaj emphasized in a social media post, “At this crucial stage of the integration process, with Chapters 11, 12, and 13 guiding our deep reforms in agriculture, food security, and fisheries, coordination with the EU and donors is vital.”

Denaj stated that this partnership aims to ensure alignment with European legislation, as well as build a modern, sustainable, and competitive agriculture that meets the needs of farmers and EU standards.
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