Syri TV – Albania 64 Years Away from EU Standards, Guest: Gledis Gjipali, October 13, 2025

The Executive Director of EMA, Gledis Gjipali, during an interview on Syri TV, commented on Albania’s path toward European Union membership. He praised Albania’s rapid progress, particularly over the past year, despite the artificial delays caused by some EU member states. However, Gjipali pointed out the evident economic gap between Albania and the Western Balkan region compared to EU countries. The bureaucratic process of integration requires meeting European standards, which should ultimately be reflected in the improvement of citizens’ economic well-being. According to Gjipali, the main challenge for Albania and the region is not meeting deadlines but effectively translating European initiatives into tangible benefits for citizens. Albania is currently in the initial stage of opening negotiation clusters, where the real work of integration begins. The rapid opening of these chapters is considered a positive factor, although alignment with European standards implies higher costs and stricter implementation of legislation. Gjipali emphasized that the European Union provides instruments to ease this gap, making the process more acceptable for Albanian citizens. Finally, regarding the low absorption of EU investments, Gjipali stressed that success in this area requires support and initiative from both public and private institutions, as well as the preparation of the legal and institutional infrastructure.

Syri TV – Albania 64 Years Away from EU Standards, Guest: Gledis Gjipali, October 13, 2025