Albania–Turkey relations

Albanian-Turkish relations

Albania	Turkey

Albanian–Turkish relations are foreign relations between Albania and Turkey. Relations have traditionally been friendly due to cultural and historical factors. Albania has an embassy in Ankara and a general consulate in Istanbul. Turkey has an embassy in Tirana.

Both nations are predominantly Muslim and are both part of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. They are also full members of NATO and the Union for the Mediterranean. Also Turkey is a EU candidate and Albania is a potential candidate.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs describes relations between Turkey and Albania as "excellent". Turkey has about 4.8 million citizens of full or partial Albanian descent, and most still feel a connection to Albania. There is also a strong Turkish minority in Kosovo, a country which is predominantly Albanian. The bond between these two nations stems from historical reasons, especially since many Albanians embraced Islam, the official religion of the Ottoman Empire.

Albania was the last nation in southeastern Europe to claim independence from the Ottoman Empire, on 28 November 1912. To this day, relations between the two countries are excellent, with Turkey being one of the first countries to recognize Kosovo, and with polls showing that Turks are one of the best-received ethnic groups in Albania.

As of 2 February 2010, citizens can visit either country and stay for up to 90 days without visas or any fee.

See also

• Foreign relations of Albania
• Foreign relations of Turkey

External links

• Albanian embassies in Turkey
• Turkish embassy in Albania
• Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Albania