Albania kicks off EU membership talks despite political turmoil at home

The opening of formal EU accession talks comes days after opposition supporters clashed with police on the streets of Tirana.

Transcript

00:00Albania's negotiations to join the European Union have begun.

00:10According to a survey carried out in 2023, Tirana will have strong support from its citizens

00:16during this process, with over 90% approving the European vision of the government.

00:24Albania's strong commitment to the West could be an advantage, especially as the war in

00:28Ukraine raises concerns about the EU's security.

00:53Despite its strengths, Albania will have to undertake numerous reforms to convince the

00:57member states and adapt its legislation to European standards.

01:26Tirana submitted its application in 2009, but still has a long way to go.

01:31Once the negotiations are concluded, the European Commission will give its opinion to the European

01:35Council, where the member states will have to vote unanimously.

01:40For the procedure to be completed, the European Parliament will also have to give its approval.