Albanians vote in general election

Albanians voted yesterday in a general election that follows a landmark agreement between the country’s two biggest political parties to look past their differences and back efforts for Albania to eventually join the European Union.

The Central Election Commission decided to extend voting by one hour due to low turnout that was attributed to religious festivities and hot temperatures that reached 39C.

Holding a free and fair election is key to launching EU membership talks for the nation of 2.9 million. Tirana has struggled to pass important reforms vital for its bid.