“The positive results of the Special Structure Against Organized Crime and Corruption, SPAK, are important steps highlighted in the European Parliament’s report,” said Kos.

“It is vital that Albania continues to demonstrate concrete progress in key areas. In this context, the full independence of SPAK must be preserved. SPAK is currently the most trusted institution in the country. It must be protected and strengthened,” stated EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos.

Kos also told members of the European Parliament that negotiations with Albania were progressing at a rapid pace, although there was still much work to be done.

“This report comes at a decisive moment, as the accession negotiations between Albania and the EU are advancing quickly, as we have heard, with several important achievements in recent months and more expected ahead,” said Kos.

This shows that Albania is seriously committed to the enlargement process, while the EU is acting in accordance with a merit-based approach. We are working closely with the Danish Presidency to maintain the pace. We believe the remaining two clusters will also be opened as soon as possible,” added the EU Commissioner for Enlargement.

“In the current geopolitical context, Albania and the Western Balkans remain a geostrategic priority for the EU,” Kos emphasized as she concluded her speech.

Both progress reports on Albania for the years 2023-2024 are scheduled to be approved tomorrow. //a.i/sm/