Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the European Union regarding the formation of a new government of Albania
The EU welcomes the conclusion of the election process in Albania, which has resulted in the first peaceful transfer of
power since the fall of Communism. The Union congratulates the Government of Prime Minister Berisha on its appointment
by the new Parliament. It calls on the new Parliament and the new Government to advance Albania's progress towards EU
integration by beginning work without delay and with genuine commitment on a clear and strong reform agenda. Tangible
progress is required, on strengthening the rule of law and on electoral reform in particular.
Recalling the conclusions of the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 18 July 2005, the EU reaffirms its
commitment to support Albania's ambition of moving closer to the EU and stresses that the key to further progress is in
the hands of the Albanian authorities. The Union encourages all political forces in Albania to unify their efforts to
accelerate that process.
The Candidate Countries Turkey and Croatia*, and the EFTA countries Iceland and
Norway, members of the European Economic Area, align themselves with this declaration.
* Croatia continues to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.