Prime Minister Edi Rama speaks to The Observer. He says Albania can help the EU survive, but only if it is given a seat at the table. At the same time, he warns that Europe faces a deep crisis.

According to Rama, darkness has fallen over Europe. In his view, the continent lacks energy and direction. As a result, Europe continues to drift deeper into trouble, and he admits he sees no clear exit.

Moreover, Rama criticizes heavy bureaucracy. He says bureaucracy has grown stronger than politics. Consequently, internal disputes block a shared European vision and weaken decision-making.

Meanwhile, Rama warns leaders not to copy the far right. Instead, he urges them to defend their values. He says the left always loses when it imitates extremist rhetoric. In the end, the devil always wins.

Furthermore, he condemns ethnic stereotypes about Albanians. He says such labels fuel attacks and violence. History shows this pattern clearly.

At the same time, Rama does not blame Donald Trump alone for Europe’s problems. Rather, he calls Trump’s election a wake-up call. For too long, he says, Europe stayed detached from reality.

In addition, Rama strongly supports NATO and Ukraine. Albania fully backs the alliance. As a sign of this support, Tirana renamed the street of the Russian embassy, and the mission later relocated.

However, Rama also criticizes Europe for lacking peace diplomacy. In contrast, he credits Trump with reopening communication with Russia. Therefore, he asks why Europe never developed its own peace plan.

Above all, Rama says the war in Ukraine proves one clear point. The Western Balkans must join the EU. From a geopolitical perspective, inclusion is essential.

For Albania, EU membership is existential. Historically, the country remained on Europe’s margins. Communism deepened the isolation. Today, however, public support for EU accession is strong.

Looking ahead, Rama targets 2030 for membership and aims to finish talks by 2027. Although critics call the goal unrealistic, he remains determined.

Finally, Rama offers major concessions. He would give up veto power. He would even share a commissioner. In short, his message is clear: let Albania into Europe.

/a.c/