EP progress report, Fleckentstein: “Don’t expect much”

17/10/2015 14:20

The German Social Democrat, Knut Fleckenstein, rapporteur of the
European Parliament, finds it difficult to believe that the publishing
of the progress report will be postponed again, even for Turkey. He
advised the Albanian politicians to continue on this path, but to not
have big expectancies from the next report.

“I wouldn’t want this postponement, but I don’t think the voices are true. I cannot believe that the Commissioner responsible for this package cannot publish it now because he is rushing for a meeting of the European People’s Party in Madrid. I don’t think that enlargement is not that important anymore. My main message for Albania is they should keep progressing, because Albania is on a good path. Although we know there is still much to do, but a lot of work has been made for the judiciary reform and now we are waiting for the comments of the Commsision of Venice. Later is is very important for this reform to have a wide majority at your Parliament, all its constitutional amends, because this reform is the base for anything else, like decriminalization, fight against corruption, etc. I think we are in an exciting phase now”, Fleckenstein declared.

TCH : What should the Albanian people expect from the new report?

“I would say to not expect much. This time they will mention only in what areas there has been progress. Certainly that there has been progress for the five key priorities. It will speak about the next steps, which you know better than the commsision. I hope you can progress next year with the next step”.

TCH: So, the negotiations could start next year?

“I really hope so. I am convinced it would be right and honest like that”.

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