Silvio Gonzato, the European Union Ambassador to Albania, attended a signing ceremony today for a cooperation agreement aimed at fostering the development of Eco-Industrial Parks in Albania.
During his address, Gonzato stated, “The Growth Plan has the potential to double the economies of the Western Balkan countries within the next ten years through enhanced economic cooperation, improved living standards, strengthened economic resilience, and progress towards EU compliance through continued reforms and increased funding.”
He highlighted that “depending on the pace and extent of reforms, Albania stands to gain nearly 1 billion euros to advance its economic development.”
“This is indeed a remarkable accomplishment,” he added.
The ambassador reiterated that “the EU aims to encourage investments and enhance the investment climate, not just in Albania but across the entire region.”
He also called on the private sector to invest in the Western Balkans, noting, “We want to attract their investments, and eco-industrial parks are crucial in this endeavor.”
Gonzato expressed the EU’s readiness to facilitate capital flow as well.
“These eco-industrial parks are vital as they promote investment, drive economic development, support businesses, and aid in the transition to more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices,” he stated.
The event was organized by the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation (MEKI) in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, and the Delegation of the European Union to Albania.
The cooperation agreement was signed by Blendi Gonxhja, the Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, and Javier Suarez, the Advisory Manager for States and Economies.
This agreement marks a significant step towards developing essential policies and a regulatory framework necessary for the sustainable transformation of industrial zones in Albania, aligning with the EU’s environmental standards and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans. (May 22)
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