TIRANA, February 2 – Spanish Ambassador to Albania, Gabriel Cremades Ventura, attended the “A Few More Steps Toward the EU” Dialogue Forum in Vlora. He spoke alongside Albania’s ambassador to Austria, Fate Velaj, EU Parliament rapporteur for Albania, Andreas Schieder, and other officials.

Ambassador Cremades Ventura emphasized the importance of completing Albania’s EU integration. In this context, he expressed Spain’s support for reforms in rule of law, justice, anti-corruption, and organized crime.

He recalled that Albania became an EU candidate in 2014 and explained that delays in the process resulted from international developments, not unmet criteria. Moreover, he noted that recent regional events and EU strategic priorities reopened opportunities for Western Balkan countries, including Albania.

The ambassador pointed out that the 2022 aggression against Ukraine changed the EU’s perspective on enlargement. Rather than seeing it as a burden, the EU viewed it as a geostrategic necessity. He added that the Granada document recognized enlargement as a strategic investment in security, stability, and prosperity. Albania seized this opportunity, he said.

Cremades Ventura stressed that EU membership reflects Albania’s institutional and societal efforts, not a gift. He highlighted Albania’s progress, including the opening of all negotiation chapters. However, he warned that the next two years remain critical. Therefore, Albania must continue reforms in rule of law, justice, and anti-corruption to meet accession requirements.

In addition, he described Spain’s practical support through EU justice projects and parliamentary diplomacy. He emphasized that informing European public opinion helps prevent misunderstandings about the enlargement process.

The ambassador expressed hope that Albania could sign its EU accession treaty by 2027. He explained that all 27 member states would ratify the treaty, bringing benefits to Albania while strengthening regional cooperation and stability.

Cremades Ventura concluded that Albania’s integration serves all of Europe and requires determined effort. He added that Spain aims to help Albania meet European standards and gain concrete benefits from EU membership, aligning domestic development with EU priorities.

/a.p./