EU moves to start membership talks with Albania, N.Macedonia -draft

The European Union will start membership negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia, according to a draft unanimous decision by the bloc's 27 member states, which was seen by Reuters on Monday and is expected to be finalized this week. The two Western Balkan hopefuls had seen their hopes dashed repeatedly in recent years as France and the Netherlands sounded skepticism over their track records on democracy and fighting corruption, fearful of allowing new members in at a time when the bloc's cohesion was already damaged by Brexit.

But Paris and The Hague have eased their objections in recent weeks and the push gained momentum despite Europe taking over from China as the world's most severe coronavirus outbreak this month. Greece was still not on board before the weekend with the decision, which requires the unanimity of all EU members, but diplomatic sources said Athens has given its approval after the latest draft included stronger language on protecting national minorities in Albania.

If no country objects, the decision is expected to be formally approved mid-week, the sources added.

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