In the framework of the Stabilization and Association Council meeting, EU Foreign Policy Chief Federica Mogherini held a head-to-head meeting with Albanian Foreign Minister Ditmir Bushati.
At the joint press conference, Mogherini confirmed the commitment to Albania's EU integration and the importance of the reforms Albania is doing, especially in justice.
"This reform is a very important key to Albania's integration. It is a transformational process that serves to many sectors of business and so on. There is plenty of room for improvement to achieve full potential, so we have given importance to this reform," said Mogherini. |
| Bushati and Mogherini |
"We also discussed the rule of law, the fight against crime and corruption. Should be continued in this direction. "
While assessing the role played by Albania in the Balkans, the European diplomacy chief underlined that next year may be a chance for the countries in the region.
"We agree that 2018 will be a unique opportunity for the region as a whole and Albania to progress on the path of integration. I am confident that the EU's Bulgarian presidency will work closely with the region. I am convinced that Albania can and will use the next 6 months to make key steps," Mogherini added.
Meanwhile, Minister Bushati said that 2018 will be a crucial year for Albania.
"We have come to the conclusion that there is a consolidated process of enforcing the rights and obligations that derive from this process. We expect 2018 to be a decisive year for Albania and we believe that the opening of integration talks will help us. Reform in justice is a unique opportunity. We also discussed the results achieved for the fight against organized crime, and these results are also a common product with European law enforcement agencies. All this attests our will. Our achievements are a solid basis for the country's future in the framework of the negotiations," said Minister Bushati.