Prime Minister Edi Rama insists on a new model of European Union enlargement, through the gradual integration of candidate countries, without waiting for full membership. Speaking at the Cernobbio Forum in Italy, Rama said that Albania and other Western Balkan countries could become part of the common market, European universities and programs, even without immediately obtaining the right of veto.
"Gradual integration is the only way to get us in and start from the real part: the common market, being part of the Europe of universities, exchanges, all the very important elements, before we think about the rest," said Rama.
Rama said he does not believe that EU countries will be willing to accept Albania as a member with all powers, including the veto.
"I don't believe that 2027 will happily await us with our veto power. I don't believe that some capitals will have the ability to say to the public: 'We will take Albania with the veto power'. We don't need the veto power to sit around the table. Imagine having 7 other idiots sitting around that table. It would be better for Europe and for us," Rama continued.
