With 536 votes in favor, 54 against and 32 abstentions, the European Parliament approved the report on Albania. With this approval, the MEPs welcome Tirana's commitment to the European Union.
The rapporteur for our country, Isabel Santos, declared that at these rates, Albania will complete the membership process in record time.
"Albania has demonstrated a deep commitment to the integration process by implementing difficult reforms. The voting result shows that the European Parliament recognizes these efforts and that Albania is fully aligned with the Common EU. Foreign and Security Policy. He recognizes the merit shown by the country on its way to EU membership," said Santos.
The Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood, Oliver Varhelyi, has congratulated Albania on the steps it has taken to follow its journey towards the union.
"Since the first day of this Commission, the Western Balkans has been our priority. Joint commitment has brought progress. Since last year's debate there has been an essential development: almost a year ago, we opened membership negotiations with Albania. This was a big step for the country and a clear recognition of Albania's progress in advancing the EU reform agenda. We should welcome the extraordinary support given by the European Parliament for the integration of Albania in the EU and also for the ongoing membership negotiations", emphasized Varhelyi.
According to the European commissioner, Tirana must open the first block of negotiations within 2023.