During his visit to Berlin, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, took part in the panel discussion “Europe Enlarging: The Case for Enlargement”, where he stressed that the accession of candidate countries to the European Union represents a strategic investment in Europe’s security, resilience and geopolitical strength.

The discussion was also attended by Germany’s Minister of State for European Affairs, Günther Krichbaum, and Kosovo’s Chief Negotiator, Jeton Zulfaj.

In a post following the discussion, Minister Hoxha underlined the broad national consensus on Albania’s EU membership and the commitment to translating it into reforms and concrete results.

“For us, European integration is not about appearing ready. It is about being ready. It is about reforms, implementation and taking the necessary decisions to become a fully functioning member of the European family,” he stated.

The Minister highlighted three fundamental principles for the success of enlargement: credibility, fairness and tangible progress.

He stressed the need for a clear roadmap, measurable objectives and a merit-based process, in which candidate countries’ fulfilment of their obligations is matched by an appropriate response from the EU.

“Merit must work both ways: when candidate countries deliver on their obligations, Europe must respond,” Minister Hoxha emphasised.

He also highlighted the importance of gradual integration ahead of formal accession, allowing citizens, businesses and institutions to experience the benefits and responsibilities of integration while reforms continue to advance.

Referring to Berlin as a symbol of overcoming divisions and European reunification, Minister Hoxha called for bold decisions at a time of hybrid threats, foreign interference, disinformation and geopolitical competition.

“Enlargement could prove to be one of the most efficient investments Europe can make in its own security,” he concluded.