Wersterwelle: Albanian Elections are a condition to joint EU

The Head of the German diplomacy, Guido Westerwelle, confirmed that the elections are a condition for Albania’s EU integration path.



In the meeting with the Albanian homologue, Edmond Panariti, June 23rd was considered as the most important for Albania’s EU integration.

When asked by Top Channel if he sustained the position of the German ambassador, that our country cannot receive the EU status even if the three remaining laws would be voted, Westerwelle declared:

“Thank you for the question, because this is a good occasion to explain the German position on this case, which is in full accordance with our partners’ and what our Ambassador emphasized. First of all, it is not important only to pass laws, but also to implement them. It is important for the election process to be held according the EU standards. We will take the decision after receiving the report. We showed that this matter is taken very seriously by us in the meetings that we had last year. As regards Germany, there will be no artificial obstacles or even tolerance for this process that we consider as between friends”.

But this was not the only message given by the German Foreign Minister. The nationalistic rhetoric is another one, which has also been mentioned by the US.

“Nationalistic emotions should be treated cautiously, especially before electoral campaigns. Allow me to say as a German citizen that we have also experienced dark chapters in our history”, Westerwelle declared.

But the position of Tirana has not changed on this matter. Minister Panariti reiterated Berisha’s declaration that Albania’s nationalism has no territorial claims.

“Allow me to take advantage from this moment to underline once again the stance of the Albanian government and our firm desire to have e constructive relation with our neighbours. Albania will play the role it has always played in the region: a promoter of stability, peace and prosperity. Albania has never had and never will have territorial claims against our neighbours, and we are fully committed to respect our position in support of the recommendations of the Contact Group. This is our position”, Panariti declared.