Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama during an interview for France24’s “Ici l’Europe”
Nov 20,
2023. Posted by Balkan Periscope - Hellas
In an interview for France24’s “Ici l’Europe” (Here Europe), Prime Minister
Edi Rama discussed Albania’s ongoing process of European integration and
Greece’s warning to impede the process over the “Beleri” issue.
Regarding Greece’s decision to block the letter from the 27 member states for opening negotiation chapters with the EU due to the “Beleri” matter, Rama expressed skepticism about the longevity of this blockade.
“I prefer not to engage in this controversy. Honestly, I don’t believe this
blockade will be sustained because it wouldn’t be sensible. Moreover, it’s
fundamentally a matter of justice. The progress report acknowledges Albania
very positively for its judicial reform efforts. I’m content because Albania is
leading the way in the Balkans on these issues,” he remarked.
Rama highlighted the
“strategic relationship with Athens”
“When discussing the Greek minority, I want to clarify that, as I
mentioned, the candidate was of Albanian-Greek origin, and his opponent in the
elections was also Albanian of Greek origin. Therefore, it cannot be solely an
issue related to the Greek minority,” he emphasized.
Rama pointed out the generally favorable nature of the EU progress report
for Albania.
“It objectively recognizes the progress we’ve made, but it also underscores
areas we must continue to address because we haven’t reached the end of the
road yet,” he noted.
Responding to a question about whether the opening of negotiations with
Ukraine is an encouraging sign, Rama suggested a cautious approach until the
official confirmation.
“It is undoubtedly a robust geopolitical decision and evidence that the
European Union has been shifting towards a more geopolitical stance and less
technocratic. However, concerns exist, and we must observe how events unfold,
especially given the new conflict in the Middle East, which doesn’t contribute
positively. On the other hand, there is a general weariness in European and
American public opinion towards this war, requiring patience and avoiding
falling into the trap of polls and perceptions that may not favor the
commitment to continue indefinitely at any cost,” he added.
The Prime Minister also touched on economic developments and expressed
satisfaction with international financial institutions recognizing the Albanian
economy’s resilience.
“During the crisis of prices, energy, etc., we maintained the lowest
inflation in the region. Simultaneously, this year, and continuing next year,
we anticipate a significant wage increase, propelling the average public sector
salary to 900 euros. This was inconceivable just 5-6 years ago. Additionally,
we are optimistic about the European Union and the growth plan, crucial not
only for Albania but the entire region,” he emphasized.
When asked about the impact of Kosovo-Serbia developments on the region’s
European integration, Rama suggested that these events could serve as an
additional reason to pursue integration.
“From a geopolitical standpoint, excluding the region or certain countries
would be detrimental to the European Union. On the contrary, inclusion and
unity are essential for achieving lasting peace in the region. While challenges
arise from time to time, the overall situation in the region is far better than
it was a decade ago, thanks to the European Union and the attraction it holds
for these countries,” he stated.
The agreement with Italy on
migrants
The Albanian premier also discussed the agreement with Italy on migrants,
clarifying that it involves establishing a reception center meeting the same
standards as those in all European Union countries.
“It’s crucial to emphasize a simple fact. While Albania is not yet an EU
member, it is a fully European country, a neighbor to Italy. If a similar
agreement had been made with an EU member state, it wouldn’t be considered
news. However, making this agreement with a non-member state generates not only
news but also conspiracy theories and unwarranted suspicions, in my opinion. If
we question the method, it should be questioned throughout the European Union
since these reception centers are not a novel concept,” stated Rama.
He clarified that this involves a reception center adhering to the
standards prevalent in all EU countries.
“Why should we be alarmed if it’s outsourced from an EU member to a fully
European country that is a neighbor to that EU member? There’s no need for
alarm; instead, we should contemplate how to respond to this escalating
phenomenon, to which no one has provided an answer. Perhaps reception centers
aren’t the ultimate solution, but it’s not our role to advise Europe,” he
remarked.
Rama underscored that “we are merely offering modest assistance to not just
a neighboring country but one with which we have had deep ties for an extended
period”.
Furthermore, he noted that this doesn’t concern 36,000 people but a
reception center with 3,000 available slots.
“This implies there will be 3,000 individuals in Albania and no more. If
there is rotation, that is normal; there might be additional people waiting,
and their requests will be reviewed in Albania. However, it’s 3,000 people. I
don’t believe these 3,000 people will disrupt the tourism industry since we
have already accommodated over 4,000 Afghan refugees,” he highlighted.
The Prime Minister emphasized that “this isn’t the sole reception center in
Europe; it adheres to the same standards and nature as those in Greece”.
“Greece is an EU member, and I don’t discern any difference, nor do I
understand where those who criticize perceive a distinction. The 3,000 people
coming to Albania for the reception center, becoming the pretext for age-old
narratives involving mafia, traffickers, human rights, and the like, isn’t a
serious matter. We need to delve deeper into these issues and find solutions,”
he concluded.
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