The Commission presents Albania with a Questionnaire to assess the country's application to join EU

On 16 December the Head of the EU Delegation in Tirana, Mr Helmut Lohan, handed over the questionnaire necessary to prepare an assessment of the country's readiness to fulfil EU membership obligations to Prime Minister Berisha. "Today's handing over of the questionnaire marks an important milestone on Albania's European path. Replying to the questionnaire is a demanding task which requires strong commitment from the entire public administration", Mr Helmut Lohan said on behalf of Commissioner Rehn. Based on the Commission's Opinion, the Member States will decide whether to grant candidate status or open membership negotiations with Albania.