Tirana hosted the inaugural meeting of the Joint Consultative Committee with the European Union’s European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), marking a step in Albania’s EU integration process.
The meeting brought together representatives of employers, employees, and civil society to strengthen social dialogue and cooperation between Albania and the EU.
At the opening of the Joint Consultative Committee, Prime Minister Edi Rama acknowledged the contribution of EESC President Oliver Röpke.
“We value this especially because, thanks to the open approach and readiness of the President and his team, we have been welcomed within the Brussels citadel as equals. We have even been given the opportunity to feel what it is like to be equal in this citadel. I am truly enthusiastic that the Committee will serve the purpose of helping our actors to grow and become an important part of Albania’s membership in the life of the European family as an equal member, I hope and wish,” Rama said.
The Prime Minister emphasized that after a long journey, Albania is now experiencing a moment where Brussels and the EU have shown a strong willingness and clear readiness to embrace the country.
“When I recall the first time we embarked on this long journey, more than 30 years ago, this is the first time that our stars are aligned with the EU’s stars, not only in terms of the future and perspective but also in terms of the present,” Rama added.
Rama noted that while the EU has consistently acknowledged Albania’s European identity and future membership, the current level of readiness to make this a reality is unprecedented.
“Of course, this is related not only to our good work but also to the general situation on our continent and beyond. The door is open, and we must take advantage of this opportunity and do our utmost to be inside when this door closes again, because we know how the citadel works: it opens the doors and then closes them,” he stated.
Reflecting on Albania’s EU journey compared to other regional countries, Rama highlighted that Albania is now at the forefront, having opened accession negotiations just last year.
“This year, we have a good chance to open all the negotiating chapters, so this is the moment in time when we must seize the opportunity, and we could not be more grateful. I hope that what President Röpke has built will not be destroyed but will serve as a foundation for further progress,” Rama said.
The Prime Minister stressed that Albania views its EU path as a unique opportunity to utilize all EU instruments for profound transformation.
Rama contrasted Albania’s situation with external interventions in countries like Afghanistan and Iraq, where Western efforts to influence change failed.
“The main reason why these interventions failed is that they do not have the blessing of being in the middle of Europe and having the EU next door, which provides knowledge and expertise for building the state and institutions,” Rama added.
Rama acknowledged the challenges of Albania’s EU journey but expressed determination to overcome them and move forward.
