ABC News / Ora News – Deliu: Implementation of reforms remains the cornerstone of integration; the EU is considering the admission of new members without veto rights, 26 May 2026

Nirvana Deliu, Project Director at the European Movement in Albania (EMA), described the eighth Albania–EU Intergovernmental Conference held on 26 May as a positive achievement during interviews with ABC News and Ora News. She emphasised that Chapters 23 and 24, covering human rights, judicial independence, and the fight against corruption, remain at the core of the integration process.

Deliu highlighted that Brussels’ focus has shifted from the adoption of legislation to its practical implementation in order to achieve tangible results, stressing that maintaining a balance between the speed and quality of reforms remains essential. Meanwhile, the current geopolitical context has supported the concept of “gradual integration” for the Western Balkans, providing Albania with early benefits such as inclusion in the SEPA system and the removal of roaming charges.

In the final part of the interview, when asked about the bilateral issue between Albania and Greece following statements by the Greek minister regarding the maritime dispute, Deliu noted that such scenarios remain possible. However, she explained that in order to prevent similar blockages between neighbouring countries in the future, the EU is also discussing the possibility of admitting new members temporarily without granting them veto rights.

ABC News – Deliu: Implementation of reforms remains the cornerstone of integration; the EU is considering the admission of new members without veto rights, 26 May 2026

Ora News – Deliu: Implementation of reforms remains the cornerstone of integration; the EU is considering the admission of new members without veto rights, 26 May 2026