Opening of EU accession negotiations with Albania and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM)

“I am very pleased about the reports the EU Commission recently published, in which it recommended to open accession negotiations with Albania and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM). I believe this to be a well-deserved recognition of  important reforms both Countries implemented while being engaged in the European integration process, and of the legitimate aspiration of their citizens to be part of the EU in the future,” said the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Angelino Alfano. He went on to say: “It is a significant result, which also represents a further step forward for the entire region towards the E.U.. We hope that the opportunity created by the EU Commission recommendations can soon lead to the opening of negotiations. In this respect we intend to support them, standing by Tirana and Skopje on their European course through the continuation and intensification of the reforms both Countries are required to implement”.
“Italy has always supported the EU enlargement process, and it will continue to reaffirm  its strategic importance in the European agenda for the prosperity, security and stability of our continent,”  Minister Alfano said.