UNOPS is providing expertise and technical knowledge to support the formulation of Albania’s Negotiation Position for Chapters 11, 12, 13 and 33 under Cluster 5 of the EU accession process. The expert is collaborating closely with the related national stakeholders and engaging in in-depth discussions with departments responsible for agriculture and rural development; food safety, veterinary policy, and phytosanitary standards; fisheries and financial & budgetary provisions. Meetings are being held with key figures and their respective teams, to assess and refine the draft negotiation position and the expert’s technical input has strengthened the interinstitutional working groups and the broader European integration structure, particularly the Coordinating Negotiating Office (CNO) and key ministries such as agriculture and finance. The primary goal of this assignment is to contribute to Albania’s preparations for EU accession by supporting the drafting of a strong, well-informed negotiation position for Cluster 5, ensuring compliance with the acquis communautaire, and advancing national readiness for the negotiation process. The expert’s involvement is helping to clarify technical aspects, address gaps and promote interdepartmental coordination, thereby enhancing the overall quality and coherence of Albania’s negotiation documents.

The assignment supports SDG 2 – Zero Hunger by improving food safety, veterinary, and phytosanitary standards, which are crucial for a secure and sustainable food system, while aligning with EU regulations helps ensure that food produced and consumed in Albania is safe, which contributes to food security and better nutrition. It also strengthens agricultural practices and market organization, enhancing the overall efficiency and resilience of the food supply chain. The assignment also supports SDG 12 - Responsible consumption and production by encouraging sustainable agricultural practices and food systems, while addressing target 12.3, which aims to halve global food waste per capita. Improved food safety regulations and better coordination in food production and distribution reduce losses along the supply chain. Finally, through its emphasis on phytosanitary measures and rural development policies, it contributes to SDG 15 - Life on Land, by promoting the sustainable management of land and forests, combating desertification and halting land degradation