Speaking at an event on parliamentary research and its role in EU integration, Gonzato said that although opening all clusters marks “a clear achievement reached with extraordinary speed”, the next step – closing individual negotiating chapters – would be “decisive and clearly more challenging.”

He said Albania’s determination and capacity to adopt and implement deep, sustainable reforms aligned with EU standards would now be tested.

“This is a moment that requires focus, rigour and determination, and one in which all actors in Albanian society must play their part if the ambitious objective of closing accession negotiations by the end of 2027 is to be met,” he said.

Gonzato said the country was entering a technically and politically complex phase of the accession process, in which parliament plays a key role.

Lawmakers, experts and international representatives at the event discussed parliament’s role in EU integration and the importance of research capacity in drafting legislation.

“Parliament is the legitimate forum where legislation is proposed, debated and adopted,” Gonzato said, adding that it also monitors implementation.

He said parliamentary research was essential for evidence-based policymaking, improving the quality of laws, strengthening transparency and building public trust in the integration process.

Accession, he added, must involve not only the government but also the opposition and civil society, supported by broad political and social consensus.

He said the purpose of strong parliamentary research was not only legal alignment with the EU but also assessment of the socio-economic impact of reforms on businesses and citizens, helping lawmakers understand costs and structural effects.

“Reforms must be based on facts, and their benefits must be explained to citizens,” he said.

/gj.m/j.p/u.sh/

In her remarks at the event, Swiss Ambassador Ruth Huber said the quality of laws depends on how professionally they are prepared, stressing that robust research is essential for responsible and effective decision-making.

She said evidence-based analysis helps lawmakers improve legislation and deliver greater benefits to citizens.

Huber noted that, with Swiss support, Albania’s parliament has established a Parliamentary Institute aimed at strengthening research capacity and the professionalism of the legislative process.

Albania, she said, faces a “historic opportunity” on its path toward EU integration, a process that is “closer than ever”. She added that broad institutional engagement is needed, including a stronger role for parliament in preparing the legal framework.

“A parliament with solid research capacity is more effective in carrying out its functions and ensuring democratic oversight,” Huber said, adding that the experience of European legislatures offers valuable guidance.

She said cooperation between Switzerland and Albania remains strong and that such discussions help support better policymaking and regional cooperation.

/gj.m/j.p/u.sh/