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| Swiss Ambassador Christoph Graf speacking |
Albania is a priority country for Swiss cooperation and assistance and Switzerland is currently the third largest bilateral donor in Albania.
During a representative activity from the Swiss and Albanian government yesterday, they presented the new strategy for Albania's support during 2018-2021.
The Secretary of State for Economic Affairs and Directorate of SECO, Marie-Gabrielle Ineichen-Fleisch congratulated firstly the cooperation, who was in Albania for an official visit, reports the Swiss embassy in Albania."The cooperation strategy we are presenting today includes some projects that directly or indirectly contribute to improving the investment climate in Albania," said Ms. Ineichen-Fleisch.
Swiss Ambassador Christoph Graf said: "The new strategy puts emphasis on results and implements a 'performance-based' approach. Swiss support is given where there is action and response. We are convinced that this approach helps to maintain consistency. Switzerland supports Albania in European integration by contributing to a functioning democracy, improved public services, and a comprehensive and competitive market economy," he stressed.
Deputy. Prime Minister Senida Mesi welcomed the activity on behalf of the Albanian government and said: "The previous 2014-2017 strategy and the strategy we are talking about today are a clear testimony of the good cooperation between our countries over the years. I congratulate the launch of this strategy and all Swiss support as it aims to advance projects in the function of macroeconomic, social and political development in Albania."
Two new beneficiaries talked about their experiences with assistance and funding from Swiss projects in the areas of civil action and entrepreneurship.
The new co-operation strategy emphasizes the 'all-inclusive'strategy in its many aspects - democratic, political, and social, and re-defines four areas where the Swiss assistance will focus. At least two new areas will receive Swiss support: (i) legal institutions - the parliament and the municipal councils; and (ii) energy efficiency. Employment and local government will continue to be a focus.
About 90m euros will support development work in the above areas with about 37% going to democratic governance, and 28% on economic development and employment.
Significant improvements are envisaged in water supply networks in at least seven municipalities, including Berat and Gjirokastra, both major touristic cities.