Updated; 03-10-2017, 17:49

VERSIONI SHQIP

Authorities in Tirana seem to be realistic, as they openly admit that they are not expecting a start of accession talks in the remaining months of this year.

Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ditmir Bushati held today a meeting with Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Immigration, and Asylum, for the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, who is making an official visit to the country.

“Albania is grateful to Luxembourg for the support it has given in the process of European integration since the candidate status was granted up through the difficult process of reforms, which we hope will soon lead us towards opening of membership negotiations" – minister Bushati stressed.

During the press conference, which followed the bilateral meeting, Minister Asselborn dwelt on some of the most important recent events in the EU, referring in particular to the events in Spain, the elections in Germany and Brexit.

In this context, he stressed the importance of EU enlargement including the Western Balkan countries. “In 2009, Albania submitted its formal application for EU membership. In 2014, it received the status of candidate country, and 2018 may be a very good year for opening negotiations. There are good opportunities and Luxembourg will continue to support it in this process "- Minister Asselborn emphasized. /noa.al/