European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Albania’s progress toward European integration. She said Albania ranks among the leading countries in the EU accession process.

At a joint press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama, von der Leyen said Albanians “carry Europe in their hearts.” She also praised the country’s efforts to turn its European aspirations into reality.

“It is truly a pleasure and wonderful to return to Tirana,” she said.

Addressing Prime Minister Rama, von der Leyen said Albania had worked hard to turn its European dream into reality.

“My first message is simple: the goal is on the horizon. Albania ranks among the leading countries in our accession process,” she said.

Furthermore, von der Leyen said she based her assessment on her regular visits and monitoring of Albania’s progress. She recalled her visit to Tirana last year.

“I can make this assessment because I come every year to follow the progress,” she said. “Since my visit last year, Albania has made remarkable progress again.”

Meanwhile, von der Leyen noted that Albania had opened the final negotiating clusters. In July, the country also closed its first three chapters, including the chapter on external relations.

According to von der Leyen, this progress carries major significance. She said Albania has fully aligned itself with the EU’s common foreign and security policy.

“This means we see the world through the same lens. That is very important in the accession process,” she said.

Finally, von der Leyen stressed the close alignment between the EU and Albania when their values and interests face challenges.

“Albania’s accession will not only make Albania stronger. It will also make the European Union stronger,” she said.