Albania–Turkey relations
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Albanian–Turkish relations are foreign relations between Albania and Turkey. Relations have traditionally been friendly due to religious 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 and Albania are candidates for accession in the EU.
Turkey has about 1.3 million citizens of full or partial Albanian descent,[1] 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 stable, with Turkey being one of the first countries to recognize the Republic of Kosovo. As of 2 February 2010, citizens can visit either country and stay for up to 90 days without visas or any fee.[2]
See also
- Albanians in Turkey
- Accession of Turkey to the European Union
- Accession of Albania to the European Union
- Foreign relations of Albania
- Foreign relations of Turkey
References
- ↑ "Türkiye'deki Kürtlerin sayısı!" (in Turkish). 6 June 2008. Retrieved 17 August 2010.
- ↑ "Albania, Turkey launch visa-free travel". SETimes. 10 February 2010. Retrieved 17 August 2010.
External links
- Albanian embassies in Turkey
- Turkish embassy in Albania
- Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs about relations with Albania
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