European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Tuesday the launch of accession talks with Albania and North Macedonia, praising their enduring dedication since each was granted candidate status in 2014 and 2005 respectively. The move marks a significant milestone in the EU’s expansion effort and reflects years of reform across both countries, as noted by EU leaders and officials in Brussels.
“What a historic moment. This is your success and the success of your citizens,” von der Leyen told the prime ministers of the two nations during a joint appearance in Brussels. She commended the reforms implemented in recent years, highlighting resilience and the modernization of their economies as key drivers of progress.
She added that Albania and North Macedonia undertook these changes not only because they are part of the EU path, but also because those reforms translated into tangible improvements in people’s lives, delivering higher living standards and greater opportunities for citizens.
The EU will hold its first Intergovernmental Conference with both countries this week, von der Leyen indicated. She stressed that the negotiations will proceed with a careful review of the acquis communautaire, aiming to quickly acclimate Albania and North Macedonia to the rights, obligations, and legislation associated with EU membership.
Progress will also hinge on closer coordination in several areas. Albania’s entry into the European Civil Protection Mechanism is on the table, and talks on a Frontex agreement with North Macedonia could enable the deployment of European border agency staff to assist the country.
Von der Leyen assured the prime ministers that this opening phase would bring increased investment, stronger trade connections, and closer cooperation in key sectors that affect everyday life and long-term growth.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala, who is presiding over the Council this semester, told Albania and North Macedonia that their clear decision to pursue EU membership strengthens Europe as a whole, a claim he argued has been tested on several occasions.
He emphasized the importance of a united stance in support of European foreign and security policy in the face of ongoing regional and global pressures, including the situation in the broader security landscape. The message was clear that unity is more vital than ever.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama reflected on the long journey toward negotiations, noting the obstacles that the process has faced and praising the support shown by von der Leyen and other European leaders in navigating the period marked by a pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and natural disasters. He expressed gratitude for the persistence of EU partners who remained committed to opening dialogue despite these challenges.
Macedonian Prime Minister Dimitar Kovacevski welcomed the start of negotiations after his parliament approved a proposal shaped by French diplomacy and negotiated in Brussels to resolve Bulgaria’s membership veto. Kovacevski described this moment as a milestone, highlighting its significance for his country’s path toward full EU alignment and recognition of Macedonian as an official language within the bloc, a long-standing strategic priority in recent decades.