Democratic Party Chairman Lulzim Basha had an online conversation today with Head of EPP parliamentary group in the European Parliament Manfred Weber.

The conversation focused on Weber’s concern about the electoral campaign in Albania. Basha said the main concerns currently are the difficult economic situation, high cost of living, unemployment and emigration. The solution of all these problems is closely related to the European integration of the country.

“Citizens are disappointed after 8 years of Rama's government, 8 years of stagnation in the European Integration process and want change. Albanians today know that change will come only when Albania makes progress in the EU integration process. Unfortunately, in these 8 years, the country has not made progress but has even taken steps back in terms of the level of corruption, the fight against organized crime and the rule of law. Therefore, the rule of law, the fight against corruption and organized crime, are preconditions to move forward in the integration process, preconditions to improve the lives of Albanians and increase their well-being", Basha said.

The Democrat chief added his party and he are trying to turn their attention to vital issues for people such as the difficult economic situation, high unemployment and the emigration of mainly young people and the educated.

Manfred Weber said that it is always good to hear that the reforms set by the EU are a guarantee for the European future for Albania. He was interested in the standards and electoral infrastructure, more specifically on the situation with the media, with the campaign activities, and in general with the access to infrastructure for the political activity of PD. He stressed that the April 25 elections are vital for Albania's European future and European integration.

Therefore, according to him, the standards of the April 25 elections are a condition for Albania to move forward on the path of European integration. Expressing gratitude for the support, Basha again demanded that this support be intensified even more, so that Albania does not lag behind but realizes as soon as possible its dream and its extraordinary potential.