Albania aims to conclude its European Union accession negotiations by 2027 and join the bloc by the end of the decade, Prime Minister Edi Rama said on Tuesday in Bucharest.
Albania and Montenegro are committed to European values, the Albanian prime minister said at the Economist Romania Government Roundtable, organised by The Economist Group.
"By embracing European values, we are ready, together with Montenegro, and we are pioneers in opening all negotiation chapters in record time. We aim to conclude them by 2027 and join the EU by the end of the decade," Rama said.
According to him, the Western Balkans could create a EUR 700 million energy market, supporting businesses and strengthening regional stability. He also underlined the importance of involving these countries in defence programmes such as SAFE.
"Through its efforts, Albania supports strengthening autonomy and defence in close cooperation with NATO. Balkan countries must be integrated into defence programmes in a proportional manner, with equal access, and benefit from initiatives such as SAFE. Their participation in procurement and negotiation programmes is essential. Investment in cross-border energy infrastructure is also crucial. We must do this together," the Albanian prime minister said.
In his view, Europe "must reinvent itself" following Russia's aggression against Ukraine.
"The world we thought we knew before 2022 was shaken by Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Ukrainians have paid the highest price, defending not only their own independence and freedom, but also our democratic way of life. Since then, developments have reminded us of a fundamental truth: Europe must reinvent itself," Rama said.
He added that the European Union must be strengthened through stronger partnerships, deeper cohesion and enhanced security.
"Albania, the Western Balkans region and countries on Europe's eastern flank are now at a unique moment to advance their aspirations to join Europe. At the same time, the European Union has a unique opportunity to grow stronger through greater unity. For the first time, a country such as Ukraine is negotiating in Brussels to secure its European future - something that would have been unimaginable before 2022. Moldova is doing the same. Despite pressure, it has remained firmly on its chosen path. On behalf of the Albanian people, I always commend their courage," the head of the Albanian government said.
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