EU integration, Hahn: Albania on right track

EU integration, Hahn: Albania on right track

The Albanian Government has been encouraged by the EU Enlargement Commissioner, Johannes Hahn that they are on the right track to open negotiations with the European Union.

After the first meeting on the screening process with Macedonia and Albania, Commissioner Hahn, Albanian Justice Minister Etilda Gjonaj and the Macedonian Deputy Prime Minister Bujar Osmani held a joint press conference.

Commissioner Hahn said that Albania still has work to do, while underlining that the vetting process has helped to return trust, even though he did not provide a concrete date for the opening of negotiations.

"I do not have a fixed date in mind, but I am delighted by the progress of the Vetting process in Albania.

"Justice Reform has guaranteed a complete transformation of the justice system and with its implementation Albania will be on the side of European countries by restoring confidence to the Albanian people.

"Vetting has returned the confidence that has been missing all these years and the justice system is being transformed by removing a considerable number of judges and prosecutors.

"The process is proceeding with determination. The path of Albanians and the region is the European family," said Johannes Hahn.

Meanwhile, Justice Minister Etlida Gjonaj said that the integration process is a path of no return for Albania.

The Macedonian Deputy Prime Minister, Bujar Osmani, questioned on Prespa's referendum, said he expects optimism about the result of the vote.

"The political class has done a good job in this regard. I am optimistic that the citizens of Macedonia will go to the polls and deliver a positive vote, thus contributing to our country's integration," said Bujar Osmani.

Today the two countries, Albania and Macedonia, attended a meeting explaining EU legislation that relates to the 23rd chapter of membership negotiations, which focusses on the essence of justice. 

EMISIONET