EU: North Macedonia will negotiate if it meets the conditions, Corridor 8 top priority

"The process of European integration is based on achievments. Albania has reached the point where Member States are satisfied with the country's progress. If North Macedonia meets the conditions, it will also start negotiations."

This was stated by the head of the EU delegation in Albania Silvio Gonzato, reports BGNES special envoy in the country Dimitar Ruskov.

'Tirana is becoming a regional capital. I think it is taking the place of Belgrade. Whatever we say about the Albanian prime minister (Edi Rama), he is certainly a man with vision,' Gonzato said.

BGNES recalls that Albania and North Macedonia were divided on the road to EU accession. The first negotiating cluster for Tirana will be opened this month.

"Unlike other countries in the region, Albania does not have an EU plan B. The desire for European integration is multi-partisan," the ambassador stressed.

Asked by BGNES if he was worried about the policy of the Macedonian government, which is trying to discredit Corridor 8, Gonzato replied that the project is a top priority for the EU in the region.

"The infrastructure (from the Bulgarian Black Sea coast to the Albanian port of Durres) has great economic and security benefits as part of the NATO strategy," he said.

The diplomat reported great progress in Albanian state administration and cooperation with Brussels and called for continuing the fight against corruption. | BGNES