Full statement of MEFA Hoxha:

“Brussels — A moment to celebrate, a moment to cheer, a moment for “Gëzuar”.

It was a great pleasure to welcome friends and colleagues from EU Member States and institutions to the Mission of Albania to the EU in Brussels to celebrate, in keeping with a well-established tradition, a key milestone in Albania’s European journey: the successful outcome of the 8th Intergovernmental Conference and the positive assessment reflected in the Interim Benchmark Assessment Report, IBAR.

This achievement is the result of years of sustained effort, political commitment, and far-reaching reforms, often challenging, yet essential, undertaken with determination by the Albanian Government and institutions. It reaffirms a fundamental principle of the enlargement process: progress is, and must remain, merit-based. We were particularly pleased to celebrate with the Commissioner for Enlargement, our Marta Kos. Her engagement and unwavering commitment as well as that of her team, in Brussels and in Albania, to a credible enlargement process have been instrumental in maintaining momentum and strengthening confidence in the transformative power of the European project.

We are fully aware that the positive IBAR outcome is both an encouragement and a responsibility. It recognizes how far Albania has come, while setting the stage for the work that lies ahead. One thing is certain: Albania remains fully committed to advancing reforms, moving steadily toward the closure of negotiating chapters, and fulfilling the aspirations of generations of Albanians who see their future firmly anchored in the European Union.

Today’s gathering was therefore not only a celebration of an important achievement, but also an opportunity to express our gratitude to all those who have accompanied and supported Albania along this path: the European Commission and other EU institutions, to all Member States for their understanding, support and encouragement, and all our friends who continue to believe in Albania and in the European future of the Western Balkans. A cheer to Albania; A cheer to our European future; A cheer to a stronger, more united & prosper Europe.”