The European Parliament rapporteur for Albania, Andreas Schieder, said today that it is time for Albania’s political culture to take a step forward and stop dramatizing every issue with extreme actions.

In a press conference, Schieder stressed that political actors must engage in strong, substantive debate.

“This applies to both the opposition and the government,” he said. “Over 90% of Albanian citizens support EU integration. Showing Europe that Albania is united and cooperative is the best message the country can send.”

Schieder praised the current consensus on some foreign policy matters in Albania. However, he added that he would like to see the same level of agreement on European issues.

He emphasized the need to improve political culture.

“In parliament, both opposition and majority deputies have room to discuss these issues,” Schieder explained. “This is normal democracy—disagreements are natural, but we should not exaggerate the situation. I have learned that the situation is less dramatic than it appears. I would prioritize the normal functioning of democracy.”