The time is now! Fleckenstein: Negotiations to open

The time is now! Fleckenstein: Negotiations to open

Pending the report of the European Commission, another positive signal comes from Brussels straight to Tirana.

After meetings with the opposition, the government and the interior minister, the Rapporteur for Albania Knut Fleckenstein is convinced that our country has completed its required tasks. 

Therefore, he said that Albania deserves the unconditional opening of negotiations, which according to him are supported by all sides of domestic politics. 

"We expect the European Commission to give aa clear and unconditional recommendation for the opening of negotiations. 

"There is still much work to be done, but Albania has done everything that we have asked for. I think it's time to open negotiations," said Knut Fleckenstein.

At the same time as the Euro MP's conference, the opposition was closing the first protest of civil disobedience. 

For the Rapporteur, protests do not negatively influence negotiations. But would Mr. Fleckenstain have the courage to do something like this in his own country?

"I do not think the opposition protest affects the report, but I would say that the limit of legitimate protest is the exercise of violence. It is unacceptable. 

"But I would not dare to block traffic in my town, as the citizens would kill me," said Knut Fleckenstein.

So, what could be seen as the wrong move which may cause a disruption to Albania's EU negotiations?

"If Albania was to deport Turkish citizens back to Turkey, in the same way that Kosovo did, I would say that this would seriously hamper negotiations," said Knut Fleckenstein.

For the Euro MP, the next visit in September will be for good reason. That being a reason to party over Albania's receipt of the invitation to join the EU in June.

EMISIONET