Germany and the Netherlands have demanded that the government respect the independence of the judiciary and fight corruption at high levels without compromise as a condition for EU integration.
Germany and the Netherlands have sent a strong message to the government in the framework of the Albania-EU Conference. The embassies of these countries have made it clear to Edi Rama that there can be no integration into the Union if it becomes a shield for high-level corruption and prevents justice from acting. As Rama celebrates in Brussels, German Ambassador Karl Bergner and Dutch Ambassador Reinout Vos emphasize that Albania still has a lot of work ahead.
"Respect for the independence of the judiciary and the unhindered fight against corruption, even in high-level cases, are non-negotiable conditions for Albania's progress in the EU accession process. This also includes the fact that decisions regarding the lifting of immunity must be in line with the recommendations of the Venice Commission," the Dutch and German embassies said in a statement.
Thus, Rama's ear is 'turned away' by the fact that the deputy minister's immunity was not lifted.
Message from the German Ambassador to Albania, Karl Bergner: The increase in the intermediate objectives in the "Fundamentals" chapter group constitutes an important step in the process of Albania's membership in the European Union. I congratulate all the citizens of Albania, as well as all those in politics, administration and justice, who have contributed by being strongly committed to this direction.
Albania is part of the European family. Therefore, Germany strongly supports its membership in the European Union.
A strong legal state, the protection of fundamental rights and a pluralistic democracy are the essence of European values. Thus, steps forward in the area of "Fundamentals" determine Albania's speed on the path towards the EU.
Therefore, the achievement of the intermediate objectives constitutes the starting point for further steps by Albania in the function of strengthening the rule of law. The agreement on the IBAR is an expression of our clear expectation and encouragement for the continuation of reforms, their resolute implementation in practice and the consolidation of responsible institutions.
Respect for the independence of the judiciary and the unhindered fight against corruption, even in high-level cases, are non-negotiable conditions for Albania's progress in the EU accession process. This includes the fact that decisions regarding the lifting of immunity must be in line with the recommendations of the Venice Commission. The
EU Member States have clearly stated these expectations in their Joint Declaration as conditions for the conclusion of the negotiations. Like other EU institutions and Member States, Germany will follow the ongoing developments very closely and will support further reform steps.
Message from the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Albania, Reinout Vos:
The achievement of the interim objectives in the “Foundations” chapter group marks an important step in the process of Albania’s membership in the European Union. I congratulate all the citizens of Albania, as well as those in politics, public administration and the justice system who have contributed to this achievement with great dedication.
Albania is part of the European family. For this reason, the Netherlands strongly supports its membership in the European Union. A strong rule of law, the protection of fundamental rights and a pluralistic democracy are at the core of European values. Therefore, progress in the area of the “Fundamentals” sets the pace for Albania’s path towards the EU.
The achievement of the interim objectives constitutes the starting point for Albania's further steps in strengthening the rule of law. The adoption of the IBAR expresses our clear expectations and encouragement to continue the reforms, to guarantee their sustainable implementation in practice and to strengthen the responsible institutions.
Respect for the independence of the judiciary and unconditional efforts against corruption, including at high levels, are non-negotiable conditions for Albania's progress in the EU accession process. This also includes ensuring that decisions on lifting immunity are taken in accordance with the recommendations of the Venice Commission.
EU Member States have very clearly set out these expectations in their Common Position as preconditions for the conclusion of the negotiations. Like the EU institutions and other Member States, the Netherlands will continue to closely monitor further developments and support reform efforts.
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