Ruling party weighs EU talks and coastal projects

Albania’s ruling Socialist Party is meeting to discuss EU accession talks while facing pressure over disputed coastal development projects.

The talks are expected to cover the country’s next steps towards EU membership and the procedures followed for projects in protected coastal areas, including Zvërnec.

The projects have drawn criticism from opposition figures, environmental groups and some European lawmakers.

Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended the government’s position, saying any development will follow legal procedures and environmental rules.

The meeting comes as Albania tries to keep its EU bid moving while answering questions over major investment projects on the coast.