TIRANA- The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini, declared that the six partner countries of the Western Balkans have the path open to join the EU.
“Western Balkans are part of Europe. Geography, history and culture bring us together. All the six partners have the chance to pursue their EU path,” Mogherini says.
However, the EU High Representative underlines that there is much work to be done. Key reforms are rule of law, justice and fundamental rights.
As the region’s strongest partner, the EU’s committed to the Western Balkans, Mogherni says.
Support for the Western Balkans in EU accession has been confirmed by EC President, Jean-Claude Juncker, and Commissioner for Enlargement, Johannes Hahn, during their official visit to Tirana a few days ago.
“To us, the Western Balkans and Albania, in particular, are friendly countries, allies and partners with a European prospect. I notice with pleasure that Albania never ceases accumulating progress, because it has launched structural reform in many areas, which are impressive. The progress made is remarkable.”
If they stay on course, the EC will recommend the opening of accession negotiations with Albania,” Juncker told a joint news conference with PM Edi Rama.