Albania remains firmly committed to accelerating reforms and closing EU accession negotiations by 2027. This was the message delivered by Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, during a discussion on European identity held today at the EU Office in Tirana.

The event, part of “Europe Week” celebrations, brought together professors, academics, and students to reflect on what it means to be European.

Minister Hasani emphasized that, despite the challenges, Albania has never lost its European identity. “The EU is the only political entity in today’s world that expands peacefully and has a list of candidate countries striving to join. This expansion is based on building liberal democracies rooted in three key pillars: humanism, the rule of law, and the free market,” he said.

 He pointed out that Albania has many stories to tell when it comes to its humanism and continues to strengthen the rule of law and develop a free market economy.

 “The justice reform launched under Prime Minister Rama’s government was one of the most far-reaching,” said Hasani, “laying the foundation for an independent and objective judicial system.”

 The Foreign Minister underlined that Albania has worked hard to align its policies, institutions, and practices with EU standards.

 “Today, Albania is on a clear path toward full EU membership, aiming to complete all major reforms by 2027 and join the European Union. As we move forward, the EU leads this process and continues to support us during this key moment of our European journey,”Hasani was quoted as saying.