Albania’s parliamentary speaker, Niko Peleshi, has described membership in the European Union as the country’s strategic national objective and the “priority of priorities” for Parliament, saying Albania has entered a decisive phase of its accession negotiations.
Peleshi made the remarks while addressing the 22nd meeting of the EU-Albania Parliamentary Stabilisation and Association Committee (SAPC), held as Albania continues its accession process.
“EU membership is our strategic national goal, the only destination for the future of Albania and Albanians in the region and, consequently, the number one priority of the Parliament of Albania,” Peleshi said.
Referring to progress made during 2026, he highlighted advances in the first negotiating cluster, “Fundamentals,” as well as the provisional closure of the first chapters.
According to Peleshi, the next challenge is to move beyond the adoption of legislation toward the effective and measurable implementation of reforms.
“A law is not good simply because it aligns with a directive, but when it can be implemented, produces results and serves the well-being of citizens,” he said.
Peleshi said Parliament intends to strengthen its role in the accession process through parliamentary oversight, executive accountability and the prioritisation of legislation linked to Albania’s negotiating commitments.
He also stressed the importance of involving civil society and the private sector so that reforms are connected to the practical needs of the economy and citizens.
Beyond legislative alignment, Albania has also begun preparing its institutions for the period following EU membership, including legal and institutional adjustments, strengthening the public administration and developing the capacities required for participation in European decision-making.
Parliamentary diplomacy is another element of the strategy, with Peleshi calling for increased engagement with the parliaments of the EU’s 27 member states. He also highlighted continued support from European institutions and partner parliaments.
As part of these efforts, the Albanian Parliament is scheduled to host representatives of EU member states and candidate countries, the European Parliament and European institutions in Tirana on September 28 for the Interparliamentary Conference titled “The EU Enlargement Strategic Agenda and Albania’s Membership.”
Peleshi said Albania’s progress toward the EU would ultimately be measured by concrete results and the fulfilment of its responsibilities.
“We are clear that the path toward the EU is measured by results and the fulfilment of responsibilities. At the same time, we are convinced that our political and social commitment is unwavering and that the Parliament of Albania will remain at the forefront of this process,” he said.
