Albania's path to EU accession – A commitment to progress and reform, said President Röpke during the visit to Tirana

From the 10 to 11 September, European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) President Oliver Röpke led a delegation to Albania to participate in the Tirana Connectivity Forum 2024 (TCF) and engage in high-level meetings with Albanian stakeholders. The visit is part of the EESC’s ongoing efforts to support Albania’s EU integration process, particularly through preparations for the EU-Albania Civil Society Joint Consultative Committee (JCC).

Speaking at the opening of the Tirana Connectivity Forum, President Röpke highlighted the importance of Albania’s progress in judicial reform, anti-corruption efforts, and regional cooperation under the Berlin Process. “Albania has shown remarkable commitment to aligning with EU standards, particularly in its foreign policy and judicial reforms. The EESC is committed to fostering dialogue between civil society and the Albanian government to strengthen these efforts,” said President Röpke.

Key Meetings and Civil Society Engagements

The mission included bilateral meetings with Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Igli Hasani, with discussions focused on the Berlin Process and Albania’s path to EU membership. President Röpke also held a productive meeting with Albania’s chief negotiator, Ms. Majlinda Dhuka, where State Minister for Entrepreneurship and Business Climate, Ms. Delina Ibrahimaj, was present. The discussions revolved around the ongoing EU accession negotiations and reforms to improve Albania's business climate. Additionally, President Röpke met with civil society representatives to underscore the EESC’s commitment to the Enlargement Candidate Members (ECM) initiative.

In a series of media interviews, President Röpke highlighted Albania’s accomplishments while stressing the importance of maintaining reform momentum. He engaged with Albanian journalists, including Ergys Gjençaj from News24 TV and Arbër Hitaj from Report TV, to discuss broader implications of Albania’s EU accession efforts.

A Vision for the Future

The EESC remains committed to supporting Albania’s EU integration through the active involvement of civil society. The establishment of the EU-Albania Civil Society Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) will play a pivotal role in ensuring that Albania continues to make progress in its EU membership journey.