Tirana - Voting was set to begin Sunday in Albanian parliamentary elections, which are to be closely monitored as a crucial gauge of the country's democratic progress.

Conservative Prime Minister Sali Berisha and his Democratic Party are seeking another term in office, but are facing a strong challenge from Edi Rama, the mayor of Tirana and head of the Socialist Party.

Some 3 million voters are eligible to cast ballots between 7 am and 7 pm (0500 GMT and 1700 GMT)

A well-organized election could help Albania, a NATO member since April, unblock its long-stalled bid for membership in the European Union.

The campaign was however marred by incidents of deadly violence and tensions are expected to remain high. (dpa)