TIRANA – An 80- minute meeting was held on Friday between President Ilir Meta and US Ambassador Yuri Kim at the presidential residence which seems to re-start the saga of the conclusion of a deal on the electoral reform in Albania.
Speaking to the media after the meeting Meta expressed his expectations that the parties will achieve consensus which will make the EU mark a progress report on Albania in its accession drive.
“I wish for a quick consensus because it is an obligation to Albanian citizens so that the vote can be free and equal vote. It is also an obligation towards the European integration,” said Meta, who declared at the outset that he had not been part of the discussions on the Electoral Reform.
According to him, June 8 is an important date. “It seems that there is progress in all the reports that have been made. Apparently, it is a question of good will for some elements. As far as I know the opposition has not set the transitional government as a condition. I hope that there will be a reflection in this direction as soon as possible,” said President Meta.
He described the meeting with Ambassador Kim as very positive saying that all are aware that the US backs Albania’s EU accession.
Asked if he had any message to the opposition he said it should unify its demands and coordinate more closely work with the commissioners. In addition he said that there is no doubt that the current super-majority does not have the necessary votes to make good changes. “Good aims are needed. The better the product, the better for all,” he said.
Meta admitted that Albania is gripped by an institutional crisis like never before including Parliament. “It is very important to go to elections accepted by all which will give opportunities to all to vote and be verified by the citizens.
“The positive role of the internationals has always been welcomed,” said Meta, who mentioned by name the EU, US and UK Ambassadors.
In a comment on the opposition’s stance, the President said he has always been for consensus. Regarding the question of the National Theater his advice was not to fall prey to the successive provocations and quit the roundtable of the reform. He was of the opinion that the opposition should not present a ‘wishing list’ but fundamental topics which have to do with the legitimacy of the institutions for Albania to move forward towards the EU. /argumentum.al
