Von der Leyen’s visit to Tirana: EU ambassador says “the goal is close” as Albania ranks among integration frontrunners

The European Union’s ambassador to Albania, Sofia Moreira de Sousa, has given a positive assessment of the country’s progress in the European integration process, following the official visit to Tirana by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. In a public message, the EU diplomat thanked the Albanian authorities for their hospitality and underlined that the progress achieved is the result of long societal efforts.

According to her, Albania has now positioned itself among the countries leading the process of accession to the European family.

“‘The goal is now close,’ President von der Leyen said, and Albania is among the frontrunners in the accession process. This is the result of years of tireless work by Albanians,” Ambassador Moreira de Sousa stressed.

The challenges of the final phase: justice, elections and the environment

As the process approaches its concluding stages, the EU representative placed emphasis on the tasks and reforms that require maximum focus from all sides. The final phase of the negotiations was described as the most demanding, requiring comprehensive political engagement and dialogue with civil society.

The key areas where further progress is required include further strengthening of the justice system and consolidation of the rule of law; improving electoral standards in line with international recommendations; and protecting the country’s nature and ecological wealth.

The impact of EU investment: the “EU4Schools” programme as a model

In her message, the ambassador singled out as one of the most significant moments of the visit the stop at the “Emin Duraku” school in the capital, one of the educational facilities rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 2019.

Through the “EU4Schools” funding programme, the European Union has enabled the reconstruction or renovation of 63 schools across the country.

“The children learning in these schools today are the reason this work matters so much. When Albania joins, it will also make our Union stronger,” Ambassador Moreira de Sousa concluded in her statement.