Albania"s EU Negotiations Begin Separately from North Macedonia on October 15

Albania's path to EU membership has been officially separated from that of North Macedonia, with negotiations set to begin on October 15. This decision was made by the Ambassadors of EU member states on September 25, reflecting ongoing tensions between North Macedonia and Bulgaria that have stalled the latter's accession process. The two countries had previously been linked in their EU aspirations since negotiations began in the summer of 2022. The delay in North Macedonia's progress is attributed to unresolved disputes with Bulgaria, particularly regarding the recognition of minority rights. Despite meeting the necessary requirements for EU membership, North Macedonia's internal political dynamics, including the recent election of a nationalist government, have hindered any meaningful advancement in negotiations. The new government has expressed intentions to renegotiate agreements that were previously established under the French EU presidency. In contrast, Albania is poised to advance in its EU negotiations, with the opening of 'Cluster 1 – Fundamentals' encompassing critical areas such as judiciary, procurement, and fundamental rights. This development is seen as a positive step for Albania, which has been vocal about its frustrations with the EU accession process. The decoupling of Albania from North Macedonia's EU path may allow Tirana to pursue its membership independently, a move that could reshape the dynamics of EU integration in the Western Balkans. As Albania prepares for its negotiations, North Macedonia remains in a precarious position, facing further delays in its EU aspirations.