The EC Albania 2021 Report highlights Albania's ongoing commitment to EU-oriented reforms and its progress towards EU accession, despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The report confirms that Albania has met the conditions set by the EU Council in March 2020 for the first Inter-governmental Conference, including the restoration of the Constitutional Court's functionality and continued efforts in judicial reform, anti-corruption, and organized crime prevention. The country made some progress in public administration, judicial reforms, and the fight against corruption, although challenges remain, particularly in high-level convictions and organized crime. Economic growth was impacted by the pandemic, but Albania is moderately prepared in developing a functioning market economy and improving infrastructure. The report notes Albania's moderate preparation in areas like public procurement, financial control, and the internal market, while stressing the need for further progress in areas like freedom of expression and social policy. Albania also demonstrated a commitment to regional cooperation, aligning with EU foreign policy, and advancing in areas such as the Green Agenda, sustainable connectivity, and external relations. However, the report identifies areas requiring continued effort, particularly in governance, transparency, and administrative capacity, to sustain its progress towards EU integration.