The European Union Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, has conveyed a message on the occasion of Europe Day, emphasizing the importance of protecting the fundamental values of the union, preserving peace and continuing Albania's European integration process.
He stressed that "now is the time to stand strong in the values we represent, for stability, good neighborliness and partnerships," adding that the international situation remains fragile, with tensions rising not only in Europe, but also in the Middle East and other regions.
"The European Union is responding by becoming more capable and strengthening its response. We are doing everything we can for stability. Peace is not free, it must be defended every day," Gonzato declared.
In his message, the EU ambassador also called on Albanian politics to continue reforms in view of membership in the European Union. "By supporting Albania and other candidate countries for membership, Europe is investing in this path. The integration process begins and ends with the guarantee of fundamental rights: the fight against corruption and the strengthening of the rule of law, which is important for the country and the region," he said.
According to Gonzato, "there are no shortcuts to membership, nor evasion of criteria," emphasizing that the country must focus on meeting the standards required by the EU.
