German Minister for Europe: “Pass the Vetting Law”

In an interview for Top Channel, Roth says that the rule of law and an independent judiciary are the pillars of the EU, that’s why Vetting is important for Albania’s EU integration progress.

Top Channel: What was the stance of Germany at the Council of Foreign Ministers?

Michael Roth: Germany is a very close and reliable partner of Albania’s EU path, and unfortunately we were unable to find consensus at the EU General Council. Austria was the only country blocking it, and we were unable to surpass this obstacle. But this has nothing to dow ith Western Balkan or Albania. We couldn’t find a joint conclusion because we had different views regarding Turkey. 27 member countries had different ideas, but for this stance we need unanimity. But it was a pleasure for me to come to Tirana and express my appreciation of the big reform steps undertaken by Albania this year, especially regarding the justice reform, which is a very important step in the EU path. If Albania will continue with this enthusiasm, I am optimistic that we will open accession negotiations officially.

Top Channel: Is there any different opinion between the German government and the Budestag, based on the declarations of Chancellor Merkel and MP Krichbaum, who arrived in Albania and mentioned seven priorities?

Michael Roth: I am representing the position of a federal government, which is one and unified. And this is an expression of respect for the reforms and progress reached in Albania during this time, and Germany is a close partner of Albania. Specific opinions of specific MPs in specific parties should not be overrated

Michael Roth, the German Minister of State for European Matters advised the Albanian government and opposition to take a constructive role for implementing the Vetting Law.

In an interview for Top Channel, Roth says that the rule of law and an independent judiciary are the pillars of the EU, that’s why Vetting is important for Albania’s EU integration progress.

Top Channel: What was the stance of Germany at the Council of Foreign Ministers?

Michael Roth: Germany is a very close and reliable partner of Albania’s EU path, and unfortunately we were unable to find consensus at the EU General Council. Austria was the only country blocking it, and we were unable to surpass this obstacle. But this has nothing to dow ith Western Balkan or Albania. We couldn’t find a joint conclusion because we had different views regarding Turkey. 27 member countries had different ideas, but for this stance we need unanimity. But it was a pleasure for me to come to Tirana and express my appreciation of the big reform steps undertaken by Albania this year, especially regarding the justice reform, which is a very important step in the EU path. If Albania will continue with this enthusiasm, I am optimistic that we will open accession negotiations officially.

Top Channel: Is there any different opinion between the German government and the Budestag, based on the declarations of Chancellor Merkel and MP Krichbaum, who arrived in Albania and mentioned seven priorities?

Michael Roth: I am representing the position of a federal government, which is one and unified. And this is an expression of respect for the reforms and progress reached in Albania during this time, and Germany is a close partner of Albania. Specific opinions of specific MPs in specific parties should not be overrated.

Top Channel: The Constitutional Court is expected to take a decision for the Vetting Law this Thursday, a law which everyone is considering as very important. What are the expectancies of Germany regarding this decision?

Michael Roth: Albania is on a good path in this direction. The Venice Commission made the necessary verifications which were concluded positively. The implementation of the Vetting Law should start without further delays. I would advice all parties to undertake a constructive and responsible role for implementing this law, because the rule of law and independence of the justice system are the basic pillars of the democratic values represented by the EU. For this reason, the Vetting Law should start as soon as possible, since it plays a central role. I am optimistic for this.

Top Channel