EU-Albania Friendship Group established at European Parliament in Brussels
 
Today in Brussels, a ceremony was held, launching 'Friends of Albania' group at the European Parliament (EP), organized by the Vice President of the European Parliament, David Sassoli.
Present at this ceremony were the President of the S&D group at the European Parliament, Gianni Pittella, Chairman of the Western Balkans Group at the European Parliament`s Committee on Foreign Affairs Eduard Kukan, as well as other MEPs from various political EP groups, who have played and continue to play an important role in the country's European integration.
The Friendship Group will serve as a friendship bridge between the European Parliament and Albania, with a view to increase support for Albania's advancement in its EU integration process, thus enabling the establishment of stronger ties and constructive dialogue within the European Parliament.
In his address, highlighting the EP role as an active supporter of transformative and modernizing efforts in the country, Minister Bushati reiterated the commitment of the Albanian government to continue with state-consolidating reforms, reaffirming that the establishment of the group at this crucial moment for Albania`s progress will bring new energies to the positive reform momentum in our country and our European aspirations.
MEPs praised Albania's constructive policy in the region, its commitment and steady progress in implementing the five key priorities for the opening of accession negotiations, reasserting the EP support for Albania's European path. They noted the positive results that this practice has delivered with other countries which are now EU members.
Furthermore, Minister Bushati stated that: "The European Parliament has always been a very active supporter of our efforts and we count on all of you to help the Union keep focused on our region. We welcome an enlargement policy based on individual merits and fairness, but there is also a need for a balanced regional approach to enlargement."