Opmerkingen van EU-president Van Rompuy na ontmoeting met premier Albanië (en)

Met dank overgenomen van Raad van de Europese Unie (Raad) i, gepubliceerd op dinsdag 17 september 2013.

Brussels, 17 September 2013 EUCO

PRESSE 374 PRPCE 165

Remarks by President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy i after his meeting with the Prime Minister of Albania

Edi Rama

It is a pleasure to welcome today the Prime Minister of Albania, Mr Edi Rama, as part of his first formal visit to Brussels after the elections of 23 June 2013. Let me congratulate him on his appointment and wish him every success in his demanding position

Our discussion focused on Albania's European Union integration process. Prime Minister Rama presented the broad lines of the new coalition Government's aspirations, pointing to EU integration for his country as an immediate and key priority. The Prime Minister briefed me particularly on economic policy and the challenges in the area of the rule of law

We took stock of progress related to key reforms over the last twelve months. It is now important for Albania to consolidate progress and to demonstrate a track record in its fight against corruption and organised crime. I stressed that the Government needs to continue building on achievements and ensure an inclusive dialogue and constructive co-operation with the opposition. Concrete progress on the EU path depends entirely on Albania and its success in obtaining results in key reform areas

We also touched upon the contribution of Albania to regional stability. I welcome that the Prime Minister stressed the continued adherence of Albania to stable borders in the region. I also value his intention to further deepen relations with all neighbouring countries, building also on Albania's network of international relations

I expressed my best hopes for the aspirations of the new Government and welcomed the spirit of constructive political dialogue in the new Parliament. I confirmed my support to the efforts of the Albanian Government towards European Union integration. A candidate status is becoming ever more realistic. I encourage you to continue on this path. There is no doubt that Albania's future lies within the European Union

EUCO