Albania has officially closed its first three negotiating chapters in its European Union accession talks, covering research and innovation, education and culture, and external relations, marking another milestone in the country’s membership process.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos described the development as evidence that Albania is already becoming part of the European family “in practice.” She congratulated Tirana on the achievement while stressing that maintaining the pace of reforms will be essential as negotiations move forward.
Kos called on Albania to double down on reforms, particularly in the areas of the rule of law, judicial independence and the fight against corruption.
She also underlined the importance of ensuring that the accession process remains transparent, accountable and inclusive, noting that sustained progress in these areas will be key to opening and closing additional negotiating chapters.
Albania has emerged as one of the European Union’s fastest-moving enlargement candidates in recent months, with Brussels repeatedly praising the country’s reform efforts. The closure of the first negotiating chapters is viewed as an important signal that accession talks are advancing, although significant work remains before Albania can complete the negotiation process and join the bloc.
The announcement comes as the European Union seeks to maintain renewed momentum in its enlargement policy, with the Western Balkans once again high on the EU’s strategic agenda amid broader geopolitical and security challenges.
