Peaceful Political Changes Lead Albania Closer to European Union

Dritan Ziu

11 November 2005

The European Commissioner for Enlargement Issues, said in Brusselles that the elections in Albania were free and fair, in a considerably way. Also the peaceful transfer of power has fulfilled the critical condition to reach completion of the Stabilisation and Association negotiations in near future.

Olli Rehn commended political progress achieved by Albania

�Regarding Albania, general progress in terms of implementing capacities for the Stabilisation and Association Agreement were registered, which could lead to the closure of negotiations in the foreseeable future� Olli Rehn said in Brusselles, during the presentation of the regular reports for the countries in his survey, like Turkey, Croatia, Albania and also the avis on Macedonia.

Asked if Albania needs to fulfil other tasks before the process is completed, Rehn replied that Albania has fulfilled a key condition.

�The key requirement... was for Albania to have free, fair and undisputed elections, conducted in a reasonable manner. Also, the change of power was peaceful, with full consensus, which demonstrates political maturity and stability of the country�, Rehn added.

Commissioner Rehn visits Albania, where he is expected to meet high officials of the State and the leading political figures.