1 billion euros for Albania from the Growth Plan/Kos: I hope they ratify it

2025-03-13 12:23:00, Politikë CNA

At a joint press conference with Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, Prime Minister Rama spoke about the Growth Plan, the agreements of which are in Parliament today. Rama addressed Kos, saying "we want our money", referring to the 1 billion euros that are dedicated to Albania in this plan.

"The Albanian Parliament has on the table today the financial agreements for the Growth Plan that pave the way for the start of financing the funds that are about 1 billion euros dedicated to Albania. So, dear Marta, we want our lek," said Rama.

Commissioner Kos said that the 1 billion euros dedicated to Albania in the Growth Plan will be given partly as grants and the rest as loans. Kos expressed hope that the economic agreements will be ratified by Parliament today.

"Yes, I hope that today we will have ratification in parliament of both agreements, which are necessary in order for us to give Albania the figure of 1 billion euros, part in loans, another part in grants, in order to carry out all the necessary reforms for Albania, but also to make it possible for you to be ready to be a member state. Because this is also the main objective of the Growth Plan, which is also part of the gradual integration where you are really progressing very well. You have said many times in the past that it would be a good thing if candidate countries, before becoming member states, became part of the EU through various networks. For example, this is happening with SEPA, this is also happening with the green corridors, as well as with the growth plan. And I was very, very impressed, in fact, by your reputation for hospitality, for kindness, and I had been told this before, but I have already experienced it and it is not just how you welcomed me, but how you welcomed the College of Europe, and how the European Parliament has decided to open its regional office right here in Tirana. So, it is about regional cooperation, youth cooperation", said Kos.