The US Ambassador to Tirana, Yuri Kim, held a meeting this Friday with the chairmen of the Parliamentary Committee for European Integration, Chairwoman Jorida Tabaku and Deputy Chairwoman Etilda Gjonaj. 

In a post on social media, the US embassy reveals details from the meeting, where it emphasizes that the focus of the talks was Albania's integration into the European Union.

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Few things are more important for Albania’s future than its integration into Europe. Ambassador Kim met October 22 with leaders of the Parliamentary Committee for European Integration – Chairperson Jorida Tabaku and Vice Chairperson Etilda Gjonaj – to discuss the European Commission’s 2021 progress report, which notes that Albania “continues to fulfil the conditions to open accession negotiations and… advanced steadily on the EU reform path” as well as areas requiring further attention. 

President Biden and Secretary Blinken have emphasized that the United States strongly believes Albania belongs in the European Union and that accession negotiations should begin as soon as possible. We believe the EU accession process helps consolidate democratic institutions, protect fundamental rights, and advance the rule of law in Albania, and enhances stability and contributes to prosperity for the people of the region. 

Ambassador Kim welcomed the Commission’s determination to strengthen accountability of government actions, inform the public, and accelerate progress toward meeting EU standards, including on rule of law, justice reform, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering measures in accordance with FATF recommendation, and electoral reform in accordance with ODIHR recommendations. She reiterated that the United States will continue to strongly support Albania’s efforts to join the EU, which – like Albania’s successful bid to join NATO – is an important strategic goal that requires the contribution of ideas and efforts by all sides.