ABC News – Albania expands the Growth Plan; Brussels Summit, Deliu: European Commission report gives positive assessment for our country, 17 December 2025

Invited to ABC News, Nirvana Deliu, Expert on the European integration process at the European Movement in Albania (EMA), provided a detailed analysis of the Brussels Summit held on 17 December and the issues discussed. Deliu highlighted the importance of this Summit, as it brings together leaders from EU member states and Western Balkan countries. The discussions focused on the enlargement process and how Western Balkan countries are progressing in their integration into the European Union, as well as on other issues related to security, defense, visa policy, migration, and more.

Regarding the Growth Plan, Albania remains the leading Western Balkan country in implementing reforms under the Plan, also benefiting from the first disbursement from the European Union. In contrast, Kosovo and Serbia still lag behind, having not implemented any of the measures or reforms outlined. Deliu also noted the positive assessments in the latest European Commission report on Albania, particularly in Cluster 1 – Fundamentals. However, for the closure of all 33 clusters, Albania must meet all intermediate criteria, including judicial reforms such as the fight against corruption, organized crime, as well as other issues like security and domestic policy.

In conclusion, Deliu addressed Serbia’s absence from the Brussels Summit and its replacement as the leading country in the Western Balkans negotiation process, due to internal problems, poor relations with Kosovo, and good relations with Russia. Serbia’s absence from the Summit and growing dissatisfaction with the EU are viewed negatively. Although this does not affect the path of other Western Balkan countries, it directly impacts the region’s overall integration process, emphasizing the need for cooperation among these countries rather than problematic actors, to facilitate eventual EU membership.

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