Kukan: EU clears way for negotiations with Albania

He says the two countries deserve a clear message for opening negotiations, while stressing that he will work during this time with partners from the two countries.

“I welcome the conclusions of yesterday's General Affairs Council for opening the way for accession negotiations with Albania and Macedonia. I want to congratulate the two countries on the progress made on the EU integration agenda. They deserve a clear message for starting accession negotiations. These countries have been given a year to come to the negotiating table, reflecting the Council's internal discussion on the EU enlargement process. I fully support Albania and Macedonia in this process and trust their commitment to the reform agenda. I expect to work with our partners over the next few months and am ready to walk with them on the road to accession negotiations”, Kukan's statement said. / TCh/