Swedish minister for EU Affairs, Jessika Roswall, was on a two-day visit to Albania during the Swedish EU presidency to support Albania’s path on EU accession. The visit was both in the capacity of the Swedish EU Presidency and in the national capacity as Minister for EU Affairs.
The purpose of the visit was to show support to Albania in the EU accession path, both politically and through development cooperation. The visit also highlighted how Swedish priorities on the green agenda are translated into concrete action through the SANE27 project, which supports Albania on environmental issues through preparations for chapter 27 on the environment in the EU negotiations. The priorities for the Swedish presidency reflect Swedish priorities for the bilateral development work in Albania that supports the country’s approach towards the EU.
The visit began with the minister meeting civil society and media organizations to talk about the importance of quality media and civil society.
During the stay, Roswall met with Albanian for Europe and Foreign Affairs Olta Xhacka, Minister of Tourism and Environment Mirela Kumbaro, members of Parliament Jorida Tabaku from the opposition and Etilda Gjonaj from the ruling party, Minister of State and Chief Negotiator for EU talks Majlinda Dhuka and EU Ambassador to Albania Christiane Hohmann.
The visit ended with a press conference with journalists to talk about their stay in Albania and the importance of independent and free media, which is crucial for EU membership and fundamental to a democracy.
The Swedish presidency have Westen Balkans region high on the agenda. Sweden fully supports the process of Albania’s integration into the EU. The EU’s decision to open membership negotiations with Albania is a historic moment in our relations. It is a recognition of the hard work done by the government and the people of Albania.
