On 17- 19 April 2024, the Norway/UNOPS ‘K4R’ Programme team met with key national and EU interlocutors in Albania, including Mr Adrian Kamenica, Director General in the Prime Minister’s Office - Department of Policy and EU Integration, Mr Endrit Yzeiraj, Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation and Mr Hubert Perr, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation in Tirana and their teams.

Our key partners highlighted the Programme's significant contribution to Albania’s EU integration process and emphasized the efficient collaboration with the UNOPS Austria team. As highlighted by all interlocutors, this has been showcased in Albania’s preparedness which led to the completion of the screening process, especially with the support of UNOPS across thematic areas under Clusters 3 (Competitiveness & inclusive growth) and 5 (Resources, Agriculture & Cohesion).

More targeted discussions also took place and, in particular,

• around the strategic planning for the joint support provided by UNOPS and UNIDO in the formulation of an industrial policy for Albania in line with EU policy guidelines and best practices;
• upcoming Technical Support Assignments on targeted Chapters of the EU acquis Chapters, and in particular Ch. 12 - Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Policy and Ch. 26 - Education and Culture, among others

The discussions held during the meetings underscored the importance of steadfast performance and reliable collaboration for successful outcomes.