TIRANA, April 22 /ATA/ The Chairman of the Parliamentary Group of the Democratic Party, Gazment Bardhi, along with DP MP Jorida Tabaku, met with Giorgio Mulé, Vice Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, during their visit to Rome, Italy.

Bardhi informed that during the meeting, “we spoke openly about the challenges Albania faces on its European path.”

“On behalf of the Democratic Party, we expressed our gratitude for Italy’s continued support to Albania on its European path,” emphasized Bardhi.

Bardhi further highlighted, “Italy has consistently advocated for the interests of Albanians within European institutions. While we are thankful for all the support, it is our responsibility to carry the country forward.”

“Albania faces significant challenges that cannot be overcome through propaganda, but through diligent work and tangible results. The fight against corruption and organized crime remains the principal test for the Albanian state. EU integration is not a gift nor a mere slogan, but an obligation to meet the necessary standards,” emphasized Bardhi.

According to him, the government of Edi Rama has replaced reforms with propaganda and is politically protecting corruption, thereby steering the country away from its European path.

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During the conversation with MP Francesca Gerardi and Senator Manuel Vescovi, Veliaj appreciated the contribution of Italy as an advocate of Albania in the process of the European Union accession.

“Italy is the best advocate of Albania in the European Union. We could not have a better friend to push forward the cause of Albania at the doors of Brussels or other offices. Thank you very much!”, said Veliaj.

He underlined that Italy and Albania are two countries closely connected not only economically, but also in cultural and human terms.

Veliaj added that many Albanians who work and live in Italy have become success stories.
“The more we do, the more we want to do, not only in culture or economy, where exchanges with Italy account for over 30% of our trade volume, but I believe that we can to do even more in the relations between cities and municipal councils. Just as we have some successful stories of cooperation, such as “Eco Tirana” or joint enterprises that we have with Italy, I believe that we can strengthen these bridges. The best days are ahead of us,” Mayor Veliaj said further.

Deputy Francesca Gerardi and Senator Manuel Vescovi underlined the important role that the Albanian community plays in Italy, where it is best integrated.

“I am lucky that in my city there is also a considerable number of Albanians – almost 20 thousand citizens, the size of a small town. The Albanian community in Italy has integrated quite well, they have created several enterprises, they are very useful for our city as well. We support the EU integration of Albania,” said Senator Vescovi.
The conversation also focused on importance of supporting start-ups and the international role of Tirana as the European Youth Capital 2022.
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