Albania to open eight more EU Chapters at fifth intergovernmental conference on May 22

Albania will open eight new chapters in its EU accession talks later this month, as the country prepares for the fifth intergovernmental conference with the European Union on May 22 in Brussels. The development marks another milestone in Albania’s fast-moving integration process.

Why is this important: The new cluster—“Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth”—includes key areas such as digital transformation, taxation, economic and monetary policy, social policy and employment, industrial policy, science, education, and customs union. Advancing in these fields is essential for meeting EU standards in innovation, labor conditions, fiscal policy, and overall competitiveness. The news, arriving just three days before election day, gives a timely boost to the Socialists, who have made EU integration the cornerstone of their campaign.

Context: In the past seven months, Albania has opened three negotiating clusters: “Fundamentals” in October 2024, “External Relations” in December, and “Internal Market” in April 2025. This upcoming round will mark the fourth cluster opened since October, reflecting growing momentum in the country’s EU bid.

Prime Minister Edi Rama, who announced the May 22 conference during a recent appearance on Real Story on ABC News, expressed confidence that Albania can open all remaining clusters by the end of this year. He dismissed suggestions that Montenegro is ahead in the negotiation process, stating that both countries are moving at a similar pace toward meeting EU requirements.

What else: Albania’s long-term goal is to conclude negotiations by 2027 and achieve full EU membership by 2030. The European Commission has praised Albania’s progress, especially in aligning domestic reforms with EU norms. The upcoming conference will be an important step toward consolidating Albania’s place within the European project.