Montenegro and Albania Strengthen Partnership

That is why I believe that through even stronger cooperation we can further consolidate regional stability and jointly build its energy and economic future," said Minister of Energy and Mining Admir Šahmanović during a meeting with the delegation of the Committee for Human Rights and Public Information of the Parliament of the Republic of Albania, led by Committee Chair Jorida Tabaku. Speaking about European integrations, Minister Šahmanović informed the interlocutors about the results Montenegro has achieved in the energy sector, emphasizing that Chapter 15 is one of the most technically demanding in the negotiation process, but also one where significant progress has been made through aligning legislation with the legal framework of the European Union and implementing reforms. Regarding specific results, the minister noted that through energy efficiency improvement programs, implemented by the Ministry of Energy and Mining in cooperation with international partners, substantial funds have been invested in the reconstruction of public facilities, primarily schools, healthcare institutions, and social protection institutions. That is precisely why we are carrying out this process in close cooperation with the European Union and international partners to ensure that the transition is fair and leaves no one behind," a special part of the discussion was dedicated to regional cooperation in the energy sector. In this context, particular emphasis was placed on the importance of the Adriatic-Ionian gas pipeline project, which is one of the most important regional energy projects and can contribute to greater energy security, diversification of supply sources, and stronger connection of the Western Balkans countries with the European energy market. The interlocutors concluded that Montenegro and Albania share a common vision of a stable, connected, and European region, and expressed readiness to continue developing partnership through more intensive institutional cooperation in areas of mutual interest.