2026-10-09 19:04:27Politikë SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

Albania has received preliminary approval from the European Union for the provisional closure of negotiations on Chapter 20, which relates to “Enterprise and Industrial Policy.” The development marks another step forward in the country’s European integration process.

According to the announcement of the Media and Information Agency, the Committee of Permanent Representatives of the EU Member States (COREPER) has approved the holding of the Albania-EU Intergovernmental Conference. The meeting is scheduled to take place on October 13 in Luxembourg, where Albania's advancement in this chapter of the negotiations is expected to be formalized.

The decision was also welcomed by Prime Minister Edi Rama, who, through a reaction on social media, described this development as a positive signal for the country's path towards membership in the European Union.

According to Rama, progress in Chapter 20 creates better prospects for investments, innovation, increased competitiveness and the creation of new jobs.

"The green light from the EU for the closure of Chapter 20 negotiations strengthens the prospects for investment, innovation, competitiveness and employment ," declared the Prime Minister.

“Chapter 20 includes policies and instruments aimed at creating a more competitive, innovative and sustainable business environment. Its focus is on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, improving the investment climate and strengthening the economy's ability to integrate into the European Single Market.

This chapter also includes measures for innovation, digitalization, green transition, development of entrepreneurial skills and increasing private sector productivity, in line with European policies and best practices.

The provisional closure of negotiations on this chapter will confirm Albania's progress in establishing the strategic, institutional and regulatory framework for the implementation of industrial and enterprise development policies, in line with European Union guidelines.

This result constitutes an important signal of confidence for investors, the business community and international partners. For Albanian citizens and businesses, it creates better prospects for investment, innovation, economic growth and employment, bringing the Albanian economy closer to the opportunities offered by the European Single Market.

With the formalization of this step on October 13, Chapter 20 will be the fourth chapter of negotiations that Albania has provisionally closed within three months.

The decision conveys a clear message of political support for Albania's progress in membership negotiations and of confidence in the ability of Albanian institutions to advance at a sustainable pace towards the objective of membership in the European Union within this decade.

"Albania remains committed to continuing reforms with the same will and dedication, in close cooperation with European institutions and member states," the Prime Minister's Office announced.


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