American strategic advisor Mark J. Finlay spoke about the role and interest of the United States in Albania and the Western Balkans region.

In an interview for News24, he underlined that Washington considers the region important and continues to be engaged in issues related to peace, stability and strengthening of democratic institutions. Finlay said that American attention is not limited only to foreign policy, as according to him, there are representatives in the US Congress who closely follow Albanian developments. He brought as an example the recent communication with a US congressman, emphasizing that the message received from him was an expression of support and encouragement for Albania.

"The US is very interested in this country, very interested in the Western Balkans. It is involved in the peace process and in the democratic development of society. I think there are members of Congress who are particularly aware and have a great interest in what is happening in Albania. I was even discussing with one of the congressmen, who is in Albania, and he replied to me this morning: God bless Albania. Thank you for your work, encourage our friends", Mark J. Finlay stated for News24.

Focusing on Albania's path towards the European Union, Finlay stressed that membership requires meeting the criteria and concrete advancement of reforms. According to him, the integration process must continue without steps backward, while the results must be tangible for Albanian citizens. He particularly singled out the fight against corruption, the functioning of justice and the creation of better opportunities for citizens as areas where progress is expected.

"Albania will go through a process of opening and closing negotiations. People in Albania want to see improvement in issues like corruption, justice and opportunity. I think a comprehensive process is free and I don't want to see Albania falling behind in terms of the deadlines for becoming a full member, but progress must be made," he said.

Finlay thus underlined the importance of continuing reforms and concrete results, linking Albania's progress towards the EU not only to the formal fulfillment of conditions, but also to improving the situation for citizens.