Prime Minister Edi Rama has hailed what he called a “historic” recommendation by the European Commission to begin preparations in 2027 for drafting Albania’s European Union accession treaty, describing the move as a significant step toward the country’s long-standing ambition of joining the bloc.

Speaking at a meeting of the governing Socialist Party’s Assembly, Rama said the recommendation placed Albania at the highest point yet in its journey toward becoming part of the European family.

“For the first time in Albania’s history, these words are appearing: preparations for the accession treaty,” Rama said, referring to the European Commission’s recommendation.

He described the prospect as a historic moment, arguing that European integration was no longer a distant aspiration but an increasingly tangible reality.

“Today, Europe is within sight,” Rama said, adding that the country must unite its efforts and resources to seize what he described as a decisive opportunity.