Kaja Kallas Urges Albania to Implement Reforms for EU Membership

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas commended Albania's ambitious plan to finalize EU membership negotiations within two years, urging political factions to support necessary reforms. During her visit to Tirana, Kallas emphasized the significance of Albania's commitment to European values, particularly its full implementation of EU sanctions against Russia. The EU began full membership talks with Albania in 2020, focusing on alignment with EU standards in areas like the rule of law and democratic governance. Kallas acknowledged the challenges of reform but affirmed that Albania's future lies within the EU. Prime Minister Edi Rama expressed hope to complete negotiations by 2027 and achieve EU membership by 2030, while Albania is expected to receive substantial financial support from the EU in the coming decade. This dialogue comes amid a renewed push for EU integration for Western Balkan countries, encouraged by geopolitical shifts following Russia's actions in Ukraine.