European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Albania’s progress in its European Union membership process during her visit to Tirana. Prime Minister Edi Rama said Albania was preparing to start closing negotiation chapters soon.

Von der Leyen said Albania was among the leading countries in the accession process. She said Albanians had worked hard to turn the country’s European dream into reality and that its membership would strengthen both Albania and the European Union. She also said the European Union needed to prepare to welcome new members.

Meanwhile, Rama said Albania expected to begin closing chapters before the end of this year and continue the process intensively next year. He said the two sides had also discussed Albania’s efforts against organised crime and corruption. Rama said the fight against corruption remained a central priority for both Albania and the European Union.

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