MCN TV – Negotiations, Deliu: The process is technical and political, 17 February 2025

On February 17, 2024, Nirvana Deliu, an expert at the European Movement in Albania, was invited to MCN TV to discuss the technical aspects of Albania’s EU accession negotiations, as well as the statement made by Marta Kos regarding this process. In response to the question about the differences between a technical process and a political process during Albania’s journey to join the European Union, Deliu explained that these processes always run in parallel and sometimes may influence each other, even potentially hindering or advancing the process. She emphasized that the technical process is closely tied to the European Commission and the recommendations it provides through progress reports. However, Deliu pointed out that the European Commission only has the power to give recommendations, and for this reason, the political process is involved, playing a role in the approval of these recommendations by the 27 EU member states. She considered Marta Kos’s statement to be very diplomatic, as the European Commission cannot ensure that the political will in favour of every phase of Albania’s integration process will be guaranteed. 

Furthermore, Deliu analysed the announcement from the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, which concerns an intergovernmental conference expected to open a new negotiation cluster. Deliu noted that Albania has passed an important process, such as the review of EU legislation, but expressed concern about the difficulties that may arise during the closing of chapters. She highlighted the possibility of setting interim benchmarks in some chapters, such as Chapter 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and Chapter 24 (Justice, Freedom, and Security). However, according to her, Albania has the potential to close the chapters related to Cluster 6, which deals with external relations. Finally, when asked whether the justice reform would impact Albania’s integration process, Deliu acknowledged that, without a doubt, this process would have a significant impact, especially if there are concerns about undermining the judiciary. She emphasized that any potential problems in this area would negatively affect Albania’s path toward integration into the European Union.

MCN TV/ Negotiations, Deliu: The process is technical and political, 17 February 2025