TIRANA, Sept 6 /ATA/ Addressing the challenges for "Competitiveness and increasing access of Albanian products in European markets" was the highlight of the meeting of the Investment Council (IC).

In attendance of the meeting chaired by the Minister of Economy, Culture and Innovation, Blendi Gonxhja, were the council members, the members of the IC, representatives from the public sector, private sector and development agencies as well as partners and observers of the IC.

In his remarks, Gonxhja stressed the importance of cooperation and dialogue between the government and the private sector with a focus on competitiveness of Albanian products in European markets and the need for harmonization with the requirements of EU market.

"The Albanian government, through the institutions we run, is fully committed to upgrading quality infrastructure, strengthening the capacities of inspectorates, and helping our businesses meet European standards. This process is already on the right track, and the Albanian private sector must be aware not only to adopt these standards, but to anticipate these changes by adopting them in advance. Above all, at this meeting I want to underline the importance of cooperation between government and the private sector. Only through open dialogue and coordinated action can we ensure that Albanian products are competitive in European markets and beyond", said Gonxhja.

"At a time when Albania is rapidly progressing towards full integration into the European Union, compliance with European standards is no longer a choice, but a necessity to ensure a decent participation in the European single market. Albania can negotiate many things with its European partners on the integration path, but standards of products and services are not on this list. They are a key condition for successful completion of this journey" said Gonxhja.

The Minister also announced the work is in progress to design a unique portal for exporters and invited stakeholders to offer feedback for addressing the pressing issues and to cooperate in achieving common objectives.

/sm/