European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has congratulated Albania on its achievements as the country provisionally closes negotiations on Chapter 20, covering “Enterprise and Industrial Policy.”
Speaking at a joint press conference in Luxembourg with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Ireland’s Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne, Kos said that EU membership was a national project.
According to Kos, Albania could become a member of the European Union before 2030.
“Albania is one of the frontrunners in the impressive progress we are achieving today, thanks to hard work and the support of member states. We are closing another negotiating chapter: Chapter 20, which concerns Albanian businesses that grow, develop, compete and create more jobs.
“Small and medium-sized enterprises are the backbone of the Albanian economy. The reforms and Chapter 20 bring them tangible benefits. Albania is also aligning its industrial policies with those of the EU, particularly in the areas of new technologies, clean technology, materials and critical raw materials. These are essential for building a stronger economy.
“I want to congratulate the Albanian institutions on another achievement and, in particular, you, dear Minister Delina. This is your achievement.
“Albania has set itself the ambitious goal of closing all negotiating chapters by 2027. We support this ambition, but to achieve it, Albania must continue delivering results, particularly in the area of the Fundamentals.
“This effort must involve the entire government, the opposition, civil society and citizens. Why? Because EU membership is a national project.
“For our part, we are preparing for a larger European Union. Last week, we presented our assessment that we need to prepare for a bigger EU. Our message was that we can make a larger Union work. We are taking the necessary steps to make this a reality,” the European Commissioner for Enlargement said.
