ABC News – Negotiations, the most important phase / Gjipali: Chapter 3 is directly connected to citizens, May 22, 2025

In an interview with ABC News, Gledis Gjipali, Executive Director of the European Movement in Albania (EMA), stated that the opening of Cluster 3 represents a crucial step in Albania’s European integration process. According to him, this development marks the real beginning of accession negotiations, initiating in a decisive phase where the country must clearly demonstrate its commitment and preparedness to meet the standards of the European Union. In this context, Gjipali noted, the Albanian government is presenting the reforms it has undertaken so far, along with its action plan for the opening and closing of negotiation chapters. He described this as the most important phase of the entire process, since each opened chapter requires continuous monitoring and the fulfillment of specific EU criteria.

Gjipali emphasized that this cluster holds special importance for citizens, as it covers areas that directly impact their daily lives. Among them, he highlighted the fields of information society and media, which deal with digitalisation, the development of online services, and the regulation of the media market. He also pointed to the significance of the taxation chapter, which aims to combat tax evasion and build a more transparent and fair system. Furthermore, he recognised the progress Albania has made in monetary policy, which is essential for maintaining macroeconomic stability. According to him, social and employment policies are equally important, as they aim to ensure the same level of protection for Albanian citizens as enjoyed by citizens of EU member states. Entering the European single market, Gjipali added, is a strategic objective that will enable Albanian businesses to operate in a unified regulatory environment with high levels of competitiveness.

Turning to citizens’ expectations, Gjipali stated that they remain high, as the integration process has been moving slowly for years. He emphasized that this delay has not only been due to internal challenges but also the shifting political context within the European Union itself, which led to a prolonged blockage of the enlargement process. However, according to him, the situation has changed significantly following the war in Ukraine and the EU’s renewed strategic interest in the Western Balkans. Gjipali also noted that reforms in justice and public administration have played a decisive role in improving Albania’s international perception and in strengthening the trust of European partners in the country.

ABC News – Negotiations, the most important phase / Gjipali: Chapter 3 is directly connected to citizens, May 22, 2025