Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has reaffirmed his country’s goal of joining the European Union by 2030, following his Socialist Party’s decisive win in the May 11 parliamentary elections. Rama emphasized the government’s plan to complete EU membership negotiations by 2027.

The Socialist Party secured 52.15% of the vote, winning 83 of the 140 seats in parliament, potentially allowing the party to govern alone. The main opposition Democratic Party, led by former Prime Minister Sali Berisha, received 34.26% of the vote and 50 seats. Other parties won the remaining seats.

The European Union has acknowledged Albania’s progress in the membership negotiations and praised the country as a “champion” of regional cooperation.

EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos highlighted Albania’s efforts and stressed the importance of maintaining reforms, especially in the judiciary, to meet EU standards.

Related News

EU advances Ukraine membership talks, EU President says

Orbán slams Ukraine's EU accession as economic threat to Europe

Thank you so much, dear Antonio.

I wish you knew how deeply I appreciate the privilege of being your friend and working alongside a great leader and person like you, in the best interest of my country and our Europe.

I look forward to welcoming you in Tirana dear friend🇦🇱❤️🇪🇺 https://t.co/QSi4bjVlCL

— Edi Rama (@ediramaal) May 14, 2025

Despite the positive outlook, the opposition Democratic Party has alleged election irregularities and refuses to recognize the results. However, the EU described the elections as calm and well-organized, noting only minor issues.

Back in 2022, at the time, Rama stated his support for Ukraine's EU candidate status but warned against unrealistic expectations, noting that North Macedonia had waited 17 years and Albania eight for EU membership at the time. He remarked, "Welcome to Ukraine," as the European Parliament at the time approved candidate status for Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia.

While calling the decision a "good thing," he cautioned Ukrainians at the time against harboring illusions. Rama expressed frustration at the time over stalled Western Balkan accession talks, blaming Bulgaria for blocking Albania and North Macedonia over bilateral disputes. He also criticized the EU's inaction during a time of war, calling it a "scary show of impotence," though at the time he chose to attend the summit after initially threatening to boycott.

Rama’s government plans to boost Albania’s tourism sector, revive the military industry, and develop the agro-food industry during the new term, aligning economic goals with EU accession requirements.

The upcoming parliamentary term will be critical in advancing Albania’s EU membership ambitions, as reforms and negotiations continue toward full integration by 2030.