For the fifth time, the Albanian MPs from the opposition and majority
will face the Stabilization and Association Committee in Brussels, on 11
and 12 July.
The three main issues that are expected to be discussed are the reforms, the Albanian Parliament developments, the economic situation and the progress in realizing the justice system reform.
Top Channel has secured the preliminary declaration, planned with eight points, which will be voted by the end of this committee, if all parties will agree:
1. Congratulated the new President of Albania Bujar Nishani for his election and thanked outgoing President Bamir Topi for his mediating and conciliatory role during the political crisis; stressed that the role of the President is key to unite the nation, to ensure stability and independence of Albania’s state institutions and to unite all political forces in their efforts to meet the conditions for the country’s EU integration process;
2. Welcomed the continued effort of all political forces to adhere to the November 2011 political agreement and observed improved relations between the political blocks since the previous SAPC meeting in December 2011; however, were disappointed that a chance for all political forces to prove their commitment to cooperation was seriously harmed during the presidential election process;
3. Welcomed steps aimed at fulfilling the 12 key priorities and reiterated its call for progress in implementing the Commission’s relevant recommendations and in particular stressed the need to urgently finalize the reform of the election law and of the Parliament’s Rules of Procedure;
4. Stressed once again that the process of visa liberalization has proven to be a success and an essential element of developing not only institutional but also people-to-people contacts between Albania and EU citizens, welcomed the way in which the Albanian government handles minor problems connected to that process;
5. Reiterated that the reform of the judiciary and the fight against organized crime and corruption are major prerequisites for the whole region’s progress towards EU membership; called upon the Albanian authorities to give priority not only to a legislative process, but also to implementation by providing organizational structures and budgetary resources; stressed in this regard that special attention is needed to strengthen independence of the judiciary;
6. Underlined that it is crucial that the events of January 2011 are followed up with comprehensive and independent criminal investigations and a credible judicial procedure.
7. Called on the Albanian authorities to enhance budgetary discipline and fiscal consolidation in order to maintain macroeconomic stability and create an environment conducive to investments and economic growth, as observed in the past; stressed that the upcoming 2013 parliamentary elections should have no influence on the budgetary planning.
8. Commended Albania for playing a constructive role in maintaining regional stability and tackling inter-ethnic tensions in Western Balkans.
Top Channel
