US Senate confirms new ambassador to Albania

The US Senate has confirmed Eric Wendt as the next US ambassador to Albania, clearing the way for him to take up the post in Tirana.

Wendt was approved by a vote of 51 to 47 after previously passing through the Senate's confirmation process.

His appointment completes the formal process required for a new ambassador to take office.

Wendt arrives in Albania after a long career in the US military and is expected to begin his diplomatic mission in the coming days.