Path to the EU, Hoxha from Vienna: Albania progressing on the basis of merit

The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, took part today in Vienna in the high-level meeting of ministers for European affairs of the Slavkov format countries, which includes Austria, Czechia and Slovakia, and the Western Balkan countries.

The meeting, organized by Austria’s Federal Minister for Europe, Integration and Family, Claudia Bauer, focused on the progress of the European Union enlargement process and on strengthening cooperation with candidate countries.

In his speech, Minister Hoxha stressed that enlargement must remain a credible process, based on merit and with tangible benefits for citizens at every stage.

Speaking about Albania’s priorities, he underlined the need for clearer and more convincing communication on European integration, which brings the EU closer to citizens and explains to them the opportunities this process brings. He paid special attention to the young generation, which must feel belonging to the European family even before membership.

In this regard, the Minister stressed that gradual integration must bring concrete opportunities and benefits before membership. He also called for expanding the participation of candidate countries in the work of EU institutions, to prepare them to contribute effectively from the first day of membership.

Referring to today’s strategic challenges, Hoxha stressed that enlargement goes beyond a political choice.

“It is a geopolitical imperative and an essential investment in Europe’s peace, security, stability, competitiveness and sustainability,” he said.

The Minister reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to continue reforms and to progress toward membership through concrete results.

“We will continue to deliver results, to progress on the basis of merit and to cooperate closely with our partners toward a stronger, more united and safer Europe,” Minister Hoxha said.