Albania requests technical assistance on EU accession

Albania has requested technical assistance from Malta, to help it prepare for its accession to the European Union. 

In a meeting between PM Joseph Muscat and Albanian foreign affairs minister Ditmir Bushati, Muscat accepted the request and emphasised the importance of the foundation of independent, democratic institutions in Albania. 

Bushati said that there was much Albania could learn from Malta's experience.

The potential for investment was also discussed, particularly in relation to the energy sector. Bushati said Albania had much potential for renewable energy production but lacked investment. 

The issue of adoption was also discussed, with Muscat saying that that government had, in the past months, had reopened adoption channels with Albania and was working on legislation that would protect the interests of children and curb abuse of the system.