The President of the European Commission Jean Claude Juncker and the Commissioner Johannes Hahn are on a visit to Tirana in the framework of a tour to introduce the new EU Enlargement Strategy for the Western Balkan Countries.
Juncker arrived today (Sunday) at around 18:00 and will stay in our country until Monday's midday, where he is expected to have meetings with high political figures.
Juncker, who is known for his special style, was received by Prime Minister Edi Rama, while of what catches the eyes is his military greeting with the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ditmir Bushati and the handshake with the EU ambassador in Tirana, Romana Vlahutin.During the press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama on the visit visit to Tirana to present the new EU Enlargement Strategy to Western Balkan countries, Jean Claude Juncker said he did not come to set a concrete date for the opening of the negotiations for membership with Albania and the EU but encouraging Albania to pursue reforms. He said the place of Albania is in the EU.
"It seems like I'm finding the Brussels climate in Tirana. Albania is progressing and this progress is impressive and if it continues; this will allow the EC to recommend the opening of negotiations. I did not come for empty promises here and set dates, but I encourage Albania to pursue reforms, especially those relating to Vetting. I encourage Albania to solve territorial issues and support the integration process. The place of Albania is in the EU - Juncker said.
Juncker said that the pending issues between Albania and Greece should be resolved and that when Albania has fulfilled all the membership obligations, and then will be something done.
"The problems between Albania and Greece should be resolved as soon as possible. We have a window of opportunity open and this should be used by both parties. The countries in the region that have territorial conflicts will try to pass and these can not be done after membership, but before. I Encourage Albania and Greece, this is a plus element to accept the opening of negotiations. When Albania has fulfilled all the membership obligations, will be something done"- said Juncker.