Follow Business Albania july07 - preview

#BUSINESS
#MARKETINGDIGITAL
#BUSINESSOWNER
STATISTICAL DATA, SURVEY, ANALYSIS,
BUSINESS INTERVIEWS, DIPLOMACY, TRAVEL, ART…
© Copyright FOLLOW BUSINESS ALBANIA 2017. All rights reserved.
FOLLOWBUSINESSALBANIA
JULY
2017
Quality over Quantity
BELLA
ALBANIA

www.tiranabusinesspark.com
info@tiranabusinesspark.com
+355 444 15 154
Tomorrow. Now
RENT YOUR OFFICE NOW !

4
BUILT TO SELL
July 2017

Ms. Stephanie Sieg is the new CEO of Tirana Business Park
(TBP), the largest German real estate investment in
Albania, located nearby the International Airport “Mother
Theresa” in an area of 22 ha. The project includes 17
buildings, which will be constructed from the mother
company Lindner Group.
In an exclusive interview with FOLLOW BUSINESS
ALBANIA, she reveals that TBP’s main goal goes beyond
business. “Our goal is to adapt not only to the needs of
our clients and to tailor for them the perfect office up on
their needs. We also want to support Albania in becoming
a more important and successful country in Europe. TBP
will also focus on the needs of Albania and their citizens.
Therefore, we will keep in touch with the government and
the municipality.”
Full interview below:
Can you tell us a few things about yourself and the
company?
I am the General Manager of Tirana Business Park since
September 2016. I hold a MBA degree in Global Business
Management from Coventry University in London/ UK and a
Master degree in Business Management from University of
Heilbronn/ Germany.
During my studies, I have gained a lot of international experi-
ence while studying in Australia, Finland, South Korea and
Great Britain. The reason for this was to get a wider view and to
understand other traditions and cultures as well as to see the
difference in doing business.
After my studies, I have started to work for the Lindner Group,
which is one of the biggest construction companies in
Germany. Lindner Group is a private family company since 52
years with the Headquarter in Arnstorf/ Germany. It is operating
worldwide. Tirana Business Park is a private investment of Mr.
Lindner and the largest German real estate investment in
Albania. It is located nearby the International Airport “Mother
Theresa” in an area of 22 ha. The project includes 17 buildings,
which will be constructed from the mother company Lindner
Group.
TBP offers ﬂexible offices, retail space, commercial areas,
shops, food, storage, internal and external parking spaces and
supporting services. In overall, it is a place where customers
can ﬁnd a tailored product up on their needs. It represents a
genuine concept of urbanism, architecture, landscape, traffic,
and infrastructure for a premium business activity.
Stephanie Sieg Splashes
the Plans Ahead for Tirana
Business Park
By Rudina HOXHA
5
BUILT TO SELL
July 2017

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet
Please can you share with us the new
creative plans of Tirana Business Park
for 2017? Where will TBP's growth be
directed in the coming years?
Our plan is to continue with the construc-
tion of our project, that our clients can
have the real feeling of working in a
business park.
Rumen Velichkov and I have started to
think and to work on our goals and
strategy. We have already changed our
price strategy to become more success-
ful and competitive on the Albanian
market.
In addition, we recognized that we have
to become more visible. Therefore, we
have started to invest now in Advertise-
ment as well as in other Marketing tools.
People can see right now city lights in the
Bllok Area and in the Airport as well as
our video at the Ring centre screen.
We also are organizing more events like
Co. Morning Coffee Events in coopera-
tion with Partners and Clients, Kid’s Day,
Gala Dinner, etc. to have more traffic at
our premises and to let the people under-
stand that our location is the best
environment to concentrate and work.
We will have also a frequent bus line
together with Epoka University, which
gives our clients an easier and more
comfortable way to come to TBP. We are
expecting this bus within the next two
months.
Our main goal is to adapt not only to the
needs of our clients and to tailor for them
the perfect office up on their needs. We
also want to support Albania in becoming
a more important and successful country
in Europe. TBP will also focus on the
needs of Albania and their citizens.
Therefore, we will keep in touch with the
government and the municipality.
How are these projects influencing on
Albania's economic progress and the
way of doing business?
First, we will tell you our strategy to give
a short impression of our vision and goals
of the project, which than explain how it
will influence Albania’s economy.
“As the first Business Park in Albania, it is
our motivation and goal, to ensure the
sustainable business environment
standards in Albania. Our new Technol-
ogy, Quality and the outstanding tailored
products and services, will bring a
change to the market.”
Our vision is to guarantee the quality of
business environment and to increase
the business growth in Albania. Our
requirement is “Tomorrow. Now”, which
stands for having the future business
environment, today.
“We are the best business environment
location in Albania. Our products provide
the standards and inspire professionally
our clients. We want our clients and
employees to be proud to be at Tirana
Business Park. For that reason, we
continue to be successful and profitable.”
The mentality of Albania regarding doing
business is changing now. Companies
want to extent their business and need
place to grow. TBP gives them the oppor-
tunity to grow and to focus on doing
business with an international touch.
However, they can still have their coffee
during working time.
The fact that companies are now concen-
trating in doing business with a more
international focus, they will have a need
to employ people that are more
educated. Universities will extend their
quality and faculties. Foreign investors
will become more interested in doing
business in Albania. Therefore, the
economy has a very good chance to
grow.
What is TBP's invitation to the
foreign investors? How do you see the
prospect of new foreign investors in
the country?
TBP is presenting foreign investors a
leading Quality and Innovation.
We are offering the best solutions in
regarding quality and innovation to our
clients. As a result, we are constructing
environmentally friendly solutions with
German Quality Guidelines (DIN Norm).
In addition, we are giving them a
6
BUILT TO SELL
July 2017

business environment, which they are
used to have. The goal of our project
is to create a network of different
companies from all branches. We are
supporting our clients in starting
doing business and sharing our
knowledge and experience.
Albania has good opportunities to
become an important and successful
country in Europe. The location of the
country, the level of labour costs and the
ability of Albanians to speak many
languages such as English, Italian,
German and many more, are the biggest
advantages of the country and are
important factors for foreign investors.
What is the new concept of TBP's
networking?
We have changed our concept of Co
Morning Coffee. We recognized that it
became unexciting for the participant.
Following a new concept, we are now
cooperating on each event with one
of our tenants or partners on different
topics.
Our ﬁrst new Co.Morning Coffee was
held by our tenant Gjiraffa with the
topic “Reﬂection 360°”
Second with T-Soft topic: Interper-
sonal Communication
Third with DIHA(Deutsche Industrie- und
Handelskammer) topic: The opportuni-
ties of the Labor Market and beyond to
the young generation and to the compa-
nies in Albania.
The Co.Morning Coffee in June will be
with Auto You and Say Taxi about their
futuristic project on eco-friendly cars
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet
The reason of changing
the Co Morning Coffee
concept is to present
and talk about topics,
which every one of us
is interested in and
needs support.
We want to give our
clients and
collaborators the
opportunity to
exchange their needs
and discuss them.
7
BUILT TO SELL
July 2017
View from one of the Co Morning Coffee sessions.

The Green Coast Resort, the largest investment of Balfin Group, in
the field of tourism, is under construction in Palasa, Himare over
a surface of more than 20 ha.
The resort embodies the modern concept of residential buildings,
tourism and property management. It aims to be one of the best
resorts in the region.
A special care has been given to the services and facilities from
Bar-Restaurant, Healthcare Center, SPA, Wellness Center, water
park and tourist guides to the promotion of culture and history
and innovative schemes on property management and return on
investments.
Green Coast is also a smart investment with fast returns through
investment programs.
The Green Coast Resort encompasses three projects namely the
project on residence complex, on the Hotel and on the Walking
Promenade which run parallel to one another.
Green Coast Resort
9
The resort includes 6 different types of villas and 4 types of
apartments, thus offering a variety of options for the
residents.
Characterized by a high construction quality, advanced
technology, a modern architecture, combined with typical
details of the area, the Elite, Individual & Twin Villas and the
Apartments come to you elegantly.
Every villa and apartment offers the wonderful sea view,
guarantees maximal privacy and gives the chance to enjoy
the garden and the veranda for the morning coffee!
Considered as a recommended world destination, this place
deserves this assessment as offering a magnificent
panorama of all the nature components.
Villas & Apartments
GAME CHANGERS

Besides being an unique experience and a favorite destination, the “Green Coast Luxury
Resort” comes as a safe investment in years through a professional management.
Thanks to its professional staff and the strategic policies, the “Green Coast Luxury
Resort” introduces two innovative property management schemes: Renting Program and
Property Share. Both they take care of the properties daily while they put the stress on
the investment returns.
The value of the land and property in Palasa is always on the rise. By purchasing a
property in this area you are buying yourself also an investment opportunity. Once
bought, this property can be used to resell and make profit. You may also use this
property to rent it using the professional service of property management companies
and get yourself a great source of income and return on investment. Anyone can be the
owner of any of these posh villas or apartments in the Green Coast Resort.
Be it foreigners or Albanian citizens all are eligible to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle that
this resort offers.
Another opportunity to be a resident in one of the best resorts in the region is to buy
through our Property Share program. The latter allows different potential buyers to
invest in a villa or apartment at various payment rates. On the basis of the payment
order, each of the buyers of the apartment has rights and obligations on it.
Foreign citizens can purchase a real estate in Albania and register it immediately under
their own name, company’s and/ or organization. Selling or renting a private real estate
can be done with regular contract according to the Albanian law.
Smart Investment
The luxurious Green Coast Resort conducts the real dimension of
luxury by taking care of every detail. In every day of the year,we offer the maintenance of
common facilities, 24 hour security, personalized accesses and any other service for a
healthy life in the chosen community.
Our personalized services under the name of Butler Service makes your home management
easy even if you are not there. A professional staff provides with all the services for the
interiors of the house, the garden, the transport and provision of information and others.
Management
Services on Green Resort are varied. Within the resort, there is a supermarket, a drug
store and the administration offices. The seafront promenade turns Palasa into an
entertainment center with various bars and restaurants, amphitheater, playgrounds for
kids, shops, green areas, beach sports facilities, and other recreational facilities.
The hotel is an important part which helps the resort in functioning 12 months a year.
Spanned over a 10.000 square meters surface, the 5-star hotel comprises a spa, a wellness
center, winter and summer swimming pools, conference rooms, helicopter fields and
sports fields.
If you seek out a totally different experience, the tourist travel guides and various sports
remain the most particular aspects.
Services
10
GAME CHANGERS

The Hellenic Business Association of
Albania (HBAA) was founded on
16th
of October 2003, today has
become a solid support for the
mutual economic development and
the enhancement of mutual
economic, commercial, industrial,
business investments, and any
other educational, political,
development relations, contacts
and connections between Albania
and Greece, in general.
HELLENIC BUSINESS ASSOCIATION OF ALBANIA
The development and promotion of further
cooperation between the two countries is
undoubtedly the main objective of Greek
and Albanian businesses in the ﬁeld of
marketing, trade, industry, and investment.
Greece remains the largest direct investor
in Albania. Through the Greek Business
Association, for 14 years, investments have
oriented and strengthened economic,
commercial, industrial and business
relationships.
The Greek Business Association consists
of 26 regular members, honorary
members and Greek entrepreneurs
operating in Albania.
The main objective is to increase the
activity of these businesses in Albania,
foreseeing the economic development of
the country, the well-being of the citizens
and the factors that contribute to the
optimal return of their investments,
maintaining a climate of friendship and
partnership not only in Albania but also in
the Balkan countries.
The HBAA plays an important role in
supporting and progressing the foreign
businesses in Albania. Members of the
HBAA are the biggest Greek businesses
operating in the most important sectors of
the Albanian economy like: banking,
communications, energy, health construc-
tions, etc.
"We would like, through the efforts of our
Association to promote dynamically the
relationship of the Hellenic businesses
operating in Albania, with the aim to
strengthen the business environment in
the country and to increase the entrepre-
neurial spirit, so the Albanian citizens
would enjoy an increasing prosperity,"
says the Head of HBAA, Mr. Periklis Droug-
kas.
“All of our actions and initiatives aim to
create further economic development in
the region, and simultaneously to build a
culture of corporate responsibility by
focusing on transparency and trust. Our
competitive advantage and success factor
is the quality and effectiveness of our
business members. In their daily work, they
respond to the challenges with unique
professionalism," Drougkas concluded.

CONTENTS
15July 2017
NOTICE The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in
this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not
necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on
information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be
appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances.
The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the
contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without
the permission of the publishers in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for
the purpose of fair review.
All photos used in the magazine are by Shutterstock unless otherwise credited.
FOLLOW BUSINESS ALBANIA
FBA PUBLISHING ©
KUMI PRINT
Editor in Chief: Rudina Hoxha
Lead Design: Leart Zajmi
Contributing and Producing Team:
E. Zaloshnja
M. Sheta
M. Hasani
K. Prifti
S. Lleshi
B. Leone
A. Halilaj
E. Hasanbelliu
WEB: www.FollowBusinessAlbania.com
EMAIL: info@followbusinessalbania.com
STEPHANIE SIEG SPLASHES
THE PLANS AHEAD FOR TIRANA
BUSINESS PARK
4
WE TARGET YEAR-ROUND
TOURISM ALL OVER THE COUNTRY,
EVEN IN RURAL AREAS
16
ELECTIONS AND PUBLIC
INVESTMENTS IN ALBANIA
EDUARD ZALOSHNJA
20
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MANETCI!
LANDMARK CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
CELEBRATES 15TH ANNIVERSARY
BY RUDINA HOXHA
24
ARBEN MEMO, CEO:
MANE TCI’S SUCCESS RECIPE:
CHANGE CONTINUOUSLY
27
HIGHLY QUALITATIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ALL
AREAS OF HR MANAGEMENT
34
CONTINUOUS EDUCATION IN ALBANIA35
LUFTHANSA TURNS 10 IN
ALBANIA, PROUD OF WHAT IT
HAS ACHIEVED
38
DONIS SADUSHAJ: “THE GENEVA SCHOOL
OF DIPLOMACY IS HELPING ME TO REACH
ANOTHER QUALITY OF DIPLOMACY FOR ALBANIA”
42
MILENA HARITO:
THE NUCLEUS OF THIS REFORM IS A CHANGE
OF MENTALITY FOR THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
46
NEW BAZAAR’S INAUGURATION MAKES
PEOPLE HAPPY
50
WEAK CONSUMPTION AND
INFLATION CONTINUES IN ALBANIA
EDUARD ZALOSHNJA
52
ALEXANDER RIEMER: VALUE ADDED MATTERS.
MORE THAN JUST ONE TON OF MATERIAL
54
IEDC’S MOTTO: “HEAR MORE, SEE MORE
AND FEEL MORE”
60
EBRD’S COLANGELI: ELECTIONS NOT INFLUENTIAL
ON BUSINESS CLIMATE, PREVENT PROLONGED
PERIODS OF INSTABILITY
KATARZYNA LASON
62
WINE INDUSTRY A CULTURE OF MODERATION
BY MORENA SHETA66
80 YEARS OF POLISH-ALBANIAN DIPLOMATIC
RELATIONS – AND GROWING STRONG
MR. KAROL BACHURA
70
BOOK ON REMARKABLE HERMAN BERNSTEIN
TO SEE THE LIGHT SOON
41
BLESSINGS FROM CHRISTINE LEE!76
DIHA TO FIND NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE
ALBANIAN ENTERPRISES
78
I ENJOYED ALBANIA UNTIL THE LAST DAY
BETTY LARDA82
PLAYMIX WELCOMES EVERYONE
IN THE WORLD OF SPORTS
90
ALBANIA-UKRAINE ECONOMIC FORUM,
THE BEST START OF BILATERAL COOPERATION
92
CELEBRATING SUMMER WITH CCIFA94
RIAD YMERI: ALWAYS DARE TO GO FOR IT!96
A SMALL COUNTRY LIKE ALBANIA CANNOT
AFFORD TO DESTROY ITS COASTLINE
102
BUSINESS UPDATE30
GREEN COAST RESORT9
CONTENTS

Dear Minister, can we speak of a new
era in tourism in Albania? How will
be welcoming tourists in Albania this
summer?
The 2017 is named the year of sustain-
able tourism, which aims to bring
economic growth; social inclusion,
employment and poverty reduction,
increased tourism efficiency, environ-
mental protection and climate change,
cultural values, diversity and heritage
shared among countries for mutual
understanding and security.
According to World Travel and Tourism
Council (WTTC) data, Albania has a high
number of employed people in tourism
and is ranked as the third country in the
world. According to this report about 24%
of jobs (nearly 1 in 4) in Albania are as a
result of tourism.
We had a high number of tourists last year,
about 4.7 million comparing with 2015, or
15% higher than the previous year.
The revenues from the tourism during
2016 hit all the time high of 1.5 billion
euros, according to Bank of Albania.
Compared to 2015, revenues from this
sector increased by 13 % or 175 million
euro more.
Implementing the new law on Tourism,
we managed for the first time to regulate
the sector, separating the Tour Opera-
tors, Tourist Agencies, Tourist Guides
and Accommodation structures in
business registry (QKB).
Now we have the first certified tourist
guides in all over Albania, (160): National
Tourist Guides, local tourist guides and
others tourist guides for specialties.
We are still working for the standardiza-
tion of accommodation structures, in
order to increase the quality and
standards of their services towards
Albanian Minister of Economic Development, Tourism, Trade and Entrepreneurship,
Milva Ekonomi states that the country is still working for standardization of
accommodation structures, in order to increase the quality and standards of their
services towards tourists. “This process will fight informality in the sector and will
lower the prices of accommodation. At the end, each hotel will have its stars, in
accordance with its standards,” Ekonomi said in an exclusive interview with FOLLOW
BUSINESS ALBANIA.
She underlines the approval of the new law on reducing the tourism tax from 20% to
6 % for hotels and other accommodation structures, which is now the same tax
applied in other countries in the region. To her, the need to construct other resorts
is crucial in order to increase the capacity of accommodation structures in Albania.
We target
year-round
tourism all over
the country, even
in rural areas
Albania has a high number of
employed people in tourism
and is ranked as the third
country in the world.
According to this report about
24% of jobs (nearly 1 in 4) in
Albania are as a result of
tourism, according to WTTC.
The tourism industry in
Albania has emerged as a
significant contributor to
growth with 4.7 million
inbound tourists in 2016.
July 201716

tourists. This process will fight informality
in the sector and will lower the prices of
accommodation. At the end each hotel
will have its stars, in accordance with its
standards.
But the most important measure in the
sector is the approval of the new law for
reducing the tourism tax from 20% to 6 %
for hotels and other accommodation
structures, which is now the same tax
applied in other countries in the region.
The main challenge today in tourism
sector is the construction of other resorts
in order to increase the capacity of
accommodation structures in Albania.
Albania has the potential to develop a
perennial tourism. Tourists, who want to
visit Albania, are attracted by unknown
tourism products, mainly in the Albanian
Riviera and in the Alps of Albania. Local
entrepreneurship is developing, enabling
authenticity to be the strongest point of
Albanian tourism.
In your view, what is the special
charm of Albania besides the sea?
In this small Mediterranean country, virgin
nature and cultural mysteries come
together to create a unique sense of
place. From the pure, white snow of the
mountains to the red fields of spring
poppies, Albania’s landscape is ever
changing with the seasons, offering
visitors a warm summer beach holiday or a
challenging mountain trek during the fall.
What is the target demographic for
tourism in Albania, and what are the
targets in terms of tourist numbers?
During 2016, the largest number of
visitors came from neighboring countries
such as Kosovo, followed by Macedonia,
Montenegro, Greece, but a large number
of visitors came also from England,
Germany, Czech Republic, France, Italy,
Norway etc. However, it is noteworthy
that during this year there has been a
significant increase in the number of
visitors from some of the European and
World Target markets such as Ukrainian,
Swedish, Bulgarian, Norwegian, Polish
and Croatian visitors.
We worked a lot in promoting Albania all
over the world. Our country participated
in 15 World Tourism Fairs last year, not
only in Europe but also in other countries
such as Russia or Israel.
The promotional video "ALBANIA: Go
Your Own Way" was broadcasted during
the winter time, for Christmas last year in
three main television BBC, Euronews and
Travel Channel. Our target is not the
number of tourists, but a qualitative
tourism, which means longer-stay trips
and more spending from tourists. That is
why we are encouraging hotels, munici-
palities to add the animations, concerts,
17
ALBANIA
HOT SPOT THIS SUMMER
In Albania, visitors are
welcomed as guests as
part of the country’s rich
cultural traditions and
heritage. The warm
hospitality of Albanians will
make everyone feel at
home in this small,
wonderful land.
We think that now the vision for tourism
has changed drastically. People all over
the country are aware that even in their
villages, in mountains, hills, they can earn
money from tourism.
Tourists are staying longer in Albania,
more than 6 days, according to statistics,
which shows that they are exploring all
the country, not just the beaches, or
cultural UNESCO sites, but also the
National Parks, the tourist villages, also
participating in adventure tours such as
hiking, climbing, diving, paragliding,
rafting, etc
July 2017
Minister Ekonomi speaking at San Pietro Resort

packages, to offer tourists more activities
than just resting on the beach. We target
yearly tourism not just seasonal; also we
are working for expanding the tourism all
over the country, even in rural areas, even
in the cities which don’t have sea, river, or
mountains, but have agro-tourism farms,
artisan tradition, wine or olive production
etc. So we think that every part of Albania
has something to show to the tourists.
What is the strategy to boost the
tourist arrivals?
The development of tourism product is
one of the important factors of tourism
development in Albania. From a
geographic point of view, the tourist
product is widespread in most of the
country's territory.
The Albanian tourism product, which we
are offering to the market, is not a single
region but it includes cultural and natural
heritage span throughout Albania's main
regions and the coastal offer for the
Adriatic and Ionian coasts.
Given the current trends of the global
tourism market, Albania's main strategy is
to diversify and develop the tourism
product, to be more qualitative, more
proactive to the market and have a
sustainable quality over services and
destinations in different geographic areas.
18
ALBANIA
Albania is positioned in the Mediterra-
nean region as a growing destination in
terms of culinary tourism development.
The growth and development of this
product is based on food traditions and
increased supply of food, which mainly
includes traditional food products from
the areas.
Another aspect that we aim to improve is
the seasonal expansion of tourism. As
cultural heritage attractions are in
demand throughout the year, high
interest rates will be capitalized to
increase seasonal expansion and
geographic spread of tourism.
Also Albania has still has untapped poten-
tial, with a significant number of virgin
coves stretching along the coastline to
create marinas/ports. The construction of
ports in Albania will be aimed at promot-
ing the traffic of windmills and yachts in
different sizes and capacities.
What is the expected tourism growth
this year?
Albania, as part of the southern Mediter-
ranean region is expected to have a
positive tourism trend during 2017.
The tourism industry in Albania has
emerged as a significant contributor to
growth with 4.7 million inbound tourists in
2016.
According WTTC during 2016, the direct
contribution of Travel&Tourism to GDP
was ALL 127.7 bn, 8.4% of total GDP in
2016 and is forecast to rise by 5.2% in
2017. This primarily reflects the economic
activity generated by industries such as
hotels, travel agents, airlines and other
passenger transportation.
The total contribution was ALL 393.0 bn,
26.0% of GDP in 2016, and is forecast to
rise by 5.3% in 2017.
Travel & Tourism generated 85,500 jobs
directly in 2016 (7.7% of total employ-
ment) and this is forecast to grow by 3.2%
in 2017. In 2016, the total contribution of
Travel & Tourism to employment, includ-
ing jobs indirectly supported by the
industry was 23.9% of total employment
(267,000 jobs). This is expected to rise by
3.2% in 2017 to 275,500 jobs.
Also Travel & Tourism investment in 2016
was ALL 28.9bn, 7.0% of total investment
and it is forecast to rise by 9.2% in 2017.
July 2017

19
ALBANIA
This year we expect more revenues from
the sector, and more satisfied tourists.
Is Albania using sufficiently the
advantage of having some of its cities
and places under the UNESCO protec-
tion? If yes, how?
Albania has some cities listed as World
Heritage protected by UNESCO. Berat,
Gjirokastra and Butrinti are always the
best destinations for tourists, because
they have already a good promotion and
are visited throughout the year.
These three cities are part of all tourist
packages of Albanian Tour Agencies and
Tour Operators, but also part of foreign
travel agencies.
Berat and Gjirokastra have been two cities
where our Government invested funds in
restoring the old streets with the support
of American Development fund. The new
road to Berat has been finished under this
government and also the city is totally
restored, maintaining the old elements,
the characteristic infrastructure and its
beautiful architecture. For Gjirokastra the
work is continuing to restore Old Bazaar,
through the same models followed in
Berat and Korca, preserving the old
architecture of the houses and streets.
The challenges for these two cities is also
the new accommodation structure, to
welcome tourists, but also finding new
tourism products to keep tourists longer in
the city.
Actually the Lake Ohrid region, Albanian
side is under the process to join Unesco
World Heritage as a mix Cultural and
Natural unique property.
A new program will start now by the
Government financed by World Bank, to
integrate the cities of Berat, Gjirokastra,
Vlora and Saranda, to improve the
infrastructure, the services, to improve
the management of destinatons and to
promote and train the human resources
in the area on tourism.
Do you have an assessment on the
new resorts that are showing up in
Albania?
There is a high interest from investors to
deviate their money in Tourism. Until now
it was energy, minerals, and other areas
which attracted more the investors from
the entire world. But looking carefully the
perspective of Albania, having in mind
the wonderful tourism assets in the
country, many projects are coming to our
Albanian Investment Developing agency
(AIDA) for building new resorts.
These projects are being analyzed while
some of them have started to be imple-
mented.
The first new brands have come to
Albania such as San Pietro Resort, in Lalzi
Bay, which is a joint project by one the
best projecting studios Oikos Progetti
and managing company Melia Interna-
tionals with the Albanian company Edil Al.
These joint projects give some know-
how and new experience to the Albanian
tourism market.
There are more to be done in
tourism sector in Albania,
which I see as one of the main
sectors, as well as agriculture
to boost the economy of
Albania.
July 2017

Eduard Zaloshnja, PhD
20
ZOOM IN
July 2017
Successive Albanian governments have
had a habit of accelerating public
investments in the months preceding
elections – especially general elections.
This habit was more pronounced before
2014, but it’s still a habit. The graph below
illustrates the tendency of the last two
Albanian governments to rush the comple-
tion of public works before voters go to the
polls.
In the five-month period preceding the
general elections of 2009, 39% of the
planned yearly public investment expendi-
tures were completed in the first five
months of that year. In the next year – not
an election year – only 29 % of the
planned yearly public investment expendi-
tures were completed in the first five
months.
2011 was an election year but local
elections were held on that year, not
general elections. No jump in public invest-
ments was registered, as a result. But the
old habit returned in 2013 – another year
of general elections. A whopping 49% of
the planned yearly public investment
expenditures were completed in the first
five months of that year, as compared to
32% in the previous year.
This phenomenon has been less
pronounced since then, but still, in election
years (2015 and 2017), one can easily
notice the bumps in investment expendi-
tures.
The rush to complete public works in the
months preceding elections increases
the danger of projects’ poor execution.
On the other hand, the lull in expendi-
tures in non-election years creates
financial and employment difficulties for
companies involved in public works and
their suppliers
Given the weather patterns in Albania,
the central government normally plans to
complete around 30% of public works for
each year in the first five months and the
rest in the following months.
While this was the case in years 2010-12,
it was not the case in the 2009 and 2013
general elections.
After 2013, public investment expendi-
tures have been well below the 30%
target in the first five months of
non-election years and close or on target
in election years (2015 and 2017).
This unevenness in completing public
investments has had negative effects
both on the economy and the quality of
investments.
Research Scientist at Pacific Institute for
Research and Evaluation, Washington DC
ELECTIONS AND PUBLIC
I N V E S T M E N T S
IN ALBANIA
Figure 1. Real Year-on-Year GDP Growth Rate in Albania (2010-16)
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
39%
29% 30% 32%
49%
21%
26%
22%
30%
For years, the Albanian government has
been hard pressed by the International
Monetary Fund (IMF) to spread investment
expenditures evenly during the year,
despite the elections cycle. However, so
far, bumps in investments in general
elections years have not yet evened out…

General Info: info@expocity.al
Sales: sales@expocity.al
Address: Tirana-Durresi Highway
7th Km. Tirana, Albania
www.expocity.al
Expocity Albania - a modern venue with 5000 m2
of
exhibition space, is the largest facility of its kind in
Albania (aimed at the organization of trade fairs,
conferences and other corporate or guest events).

THE LEADING LAW FIRM
IN ALBANIA
Leading Law Firm
in
Albania

Partner of Yingke Law Firm China
www.lpalbania.com

24
PROPERTY FEATURE
In 2002, the vision of the Chairman of
Balfin Group, Mr. Samir Mane,
passionate enough about quality and
determined to provide extraordinary
construction and construction related
to services, began its own journey to
fulfil these dreams.
Today, 15 years later, that same
passion continues to live on this
vision, transformed and still
influences into Mane TCI Company
with the signature motto - “...We
build values!”
Having this in heart and mind, one of the
most conspicuous and landmark construc-
tion companies in Albania, Mane TCI,
celebrates its 15th anniversary this
summer.
Mane TCI Company, founded in 2002, is a
trendsetter in the field of construction and
investing in development projects in
Albania and in the Balkans. Growth has
been steady ever since, with the company
adding different types of projects to their
roster. Its rich portfolio comprises landmark
shopping malls, residential objects, tourist
resorts and residential communities. What
is a better moment than this to remind of
By Rudina HOXHA
Happy Birthday to ManeTCI!
Landmark Construction Company
Celebrates 15th anniversary
The future upon us is shining out on change
what Mane TCI stands for!
Mane TCI is part of Balfin Group, the
largest private investment group in Albania
and the region, having under its umbrella
brands such as: Neptun, Albchrome,
Acrem, Spar, Fashion Group and many
more.
For the first time, Mane TCI introduced to
the Albanian buyers the concept of the
shopping malls according to the European
standards, thus designing and building
with other foreign companies the first
shopping mall – Qendra Tregtare Univers
(QTU) of 47.000 m2, concluded by 2005 to
July 2017

25July 2017
PROPERTY FEATURE
follow up with the biggest shopping mall in
the Balkans –Tirana East Gate (TEG) on
Tirana-Elbasan Highway with a total
surface of 95,700 m2 and a catchy hub of
the most exclusive brands.
Furthermore, the rarely seen luxury
property complex, “Rolling Hills Luxury
Residences”, an investment of Euro 64
million demonstrates the next level of
living by quality and standards. Unveiling
the concept of elegant community, sharing
recreation and entertainment premises
and abiding by strong security rules,
“Rolling Hills Luxury Residences” stands
for 131 plush three- storied villas over 280
m2 to 2,000 m2.
Security and technical maintenance
services for 24 hours, high esthetical
standards and guaranteed comfort, are
only some of the features of the residential
objects, represented by Ambassador 1, 2 &
3, of Mane TCI. Developed by Mane TCI,
the 14-storied “Ambassador 1”, located at
the heart of Tirana, was concluded in 2009
while “Ambassador 2”, positioned close to
the Artificial Lake, was a response to the
many demands for easily accessible
luxurious apartments in a calm area.
The brand identity splashes over with
“Ambassador 3” one-of-its-kind residential
buildings in Albania, designed to provide
people with as many facilitations and
stress-free ways as possible.
The amazing journey in Mane TCI's life also
includes the construction of tourist resorts
with big names like "Vala Mar Residences”
in Lalzi Bay and "Green Coast Resort" in
Palase Area. Such projects confirm the
saying “lucky to be by the sea.” Spanned
over 1 km along the Adriatic Sea, “Vala Mar
Residences” will be transformed this
summer into the main tourist destination
for the people and the families who aim to
touch nature and feel comfortable and
safe. The Euro 25 million investment
invites to regenerate and enjoy life.
On the other hand, "Green Coast Luxury
Resort" brings the missing concept of elite
tourism in Albania, thus making everyone
who has such a chance to feel blessed.
In addition, Mane TCI offers its expertise in
the development and supervision of
agro-culture projects, in the field of
logistics with the construction of the first
logistics centre - Tirana Logistic Park - for
the Albanian businesses as well as in the
construction of recreation centres.
Needless to say, Mane TCI’s portfolio
strongly echoes its vision: to be a leader in
the field of construction, trade and invest-
ments in real estate.

26 July 2017
PROPERTY FEATURE
emphasizing its dedication to give back to
the community by demonstrating its
commitment to social responsibility.
This is clearly shown in every Mane TCI
project which is a commitment in itself
towards retaining and protecting the green
areas and the environment in general.
On this remarkable anniversary, Mane TCI
feels humbled by the opportunity to have
had over these 15 years to collaborate with
partners and clients who have been able
enough to recognize the real meaning of
“Our focus has not been building construc-
tion projects, but building values. Innova-
tion is our core drive. Mane TCI is the first to
introduce the one-stop shop system with
the shopping malls, the first to bring the
luxury residences with Rolling Hills project
(still none has reached such standards), the
first to present the residential houses with
Ambassador 1, 2 & 3, characterized by
highly qualitative services, facilities, luxury
and modernization and the first to bring
new standards in the tourism sector,”
concludes Igla Gjoka, Marketing Manager
at Mane TCI. Also, Mane TCI is very keen on
Innovation and invention have
been key in retaining satisfied
clients, brand recognition, market
share and industry development.
quality and standard. Mane TCI, in this 15
years stands proud of the positive impact its
products have played on a better living for
the community

Arben Memo is the CEO of ManeTCI (Trade
Construction Investment) since March
2013. He ﬁrst joined Balﬁn Group in 2009.
PROPERTY FEATURE
27July 2017
By Rudina HOXHA
Arben Memo, CEO:
MANE TCI’s Success Recipe:
Change Continuously
Clients have driven the change in us

28
PROPERTY FEATURE
for the company to move on until to date.
Throughout the years, we have learned a
lot from the market, the competition and
above all, from the clients. The latter
have not been ‘common’, instead they
were experienced and knowledgeable in
the field of construction. So, this made us
to work harder in order to meet and
exceed their expectations and criteria.
The client aspect has been crucial
because this has made us to continu-
ously develop ourselves. After all, this
has been the key to our success.
It sounds that ManeTCI has always
been one step ahead in Albanian
Market …
True. We have aimed not only to meet
the proper standards in Albania but even
to perceive and to see what is going on in
July 2017
What is to remember from the first
few years of ManeTCI and how have
things changed since then?
In its beginning, ManeTCI was a small
company operating in the field of
construction for a relatively short time
but with a very interesting experience
because it had just concluded the first
shopping mall in Tirana, i.e. Qendra-
Tregtare Univers. The success of QTU
project inspired ManeTCI to look at the
real estate market with a lot of interest.
Consequently this company became a
real magnet for many people to approach
it. When I joined this company first, in
2009, I remember that it was a company
which had started from the scratch. Since
in its early beginnings, it aimed at
introducing something new to the market.
The new strategies incorporated made
ManeTCI to make people turn their heads,
and later put a sign of equality between
quality construction and our brand.
It was a simple, well-structured company
which tried hard to borrow the best
experiences from the country and abroad
leading to ManeTCI’s change with respect
to its organization and structuring and its
future vision. But this did not happen
overnight. It took many years of dedica-
tion and work, thus preparing the ground

This is not easy because they want good
and easy access, proximity to the airport,
good infrastructure, nearby ports in order
not to waste time. Still I don’t believe this
will impede us from making such
prospect clients ours.
What’s the biggest change ManeTCI
has brought when it comes to the
luxury properties, construction and
tourism standards in Albania in the
past 15 years?
The clients’ expectations and demands
have changed over the years. One thing
we have learned well is: if you are ahead
of others with some innovation or novel-
ties, surely you will be successful. This is
universal. But in our case, irrespective of
the prices, ManeTCI’s constructions offer
the best quality, so the target is surely
there for us.
This has been the concept of the luxury
properties which we introduced with
Rolling Hills Luxury Residences. Its
concept was ‘think big.” Its neo-classical
style, brought by the US architectural
designers, was something not seen at
that time. So, we decided to bring some-
thing really luxury.
Definitely the latter will be resistant to
time for its quality and standards,
surfaces, interior maintenance system,
costs etc. This was a product which was
not seen at that time in the country and
beyond. It can be said with sureness that
ManeTCI is the only company which
assures a well-thought interior technical
maintenance organization scheme.
The biggest change we brought though,
is our focus on building an enjoyable
living experience, building communities
and offering maintenance. We cooperate
with “ACREM” company to administer the
properties.
Our philosophy is that a property keeps
its values high all the time when the
maintenance services are continuously
offered. On the other hand, we have
managed to guarantee a cooperative
community in our properties. For
example, all the residents living in Rolling
Hills receive a regular newsletter. They
also have appointed an assembly which
run the place based on some regulations.
The same follows with Ambassador 3
residents. This way, the transparency is
guaranteed.
So you have an important anniversary
this year! How will you be celebrating?
It is an important year. We have analyzed
the progress of ManeTCI in these 15
years. I can say with certainty that we are
among the best on the Albanian market
because we have always reshaped the
construction market with standards and
innovation
29July 2017
PROPERTY FEATURE
the region and further. This has been a
very good approach. After building QTU,
we continued with TEG shopping mall
which can be considered as the climax of
ManeTCI’s success from every point of
view. This was a really big experience
whose success is echoing actual even to
date.
What is the major feature of ManeTCI?
There is a set of values that guide our
work, technical expertise, focus on
human resources, innovation and quality
standards. Working by emphasizing
these values is a philosophy which we
have embraced jointly through years
since being a part of a Balfin Group which
always is in search of innovation and
change.
It is very important that we are being
demanded to change. This word is really
challenging. By the word “change”, it
means that we have to continuously
change the quality, the standards, the
work tempo, the organization scheme,
the deadlines and the costs. So, it needs
a lot of efforts in order for us to stay online
all the time. Because we know that the
market changes perpetually. The clients
are those who have always driven the
change in us. I believe we have success-
fully made it so far.
Also, we have another asset – our work
environment. Our 120-people staff has
created a work environment that is driven
by a very inspiring organizational culture.
The values our company reflects we try to
have in ourselves and then to distill in our
products. We love what we do. Every
individual of ManeTCI staff reflects this.
This has made us the best.
When we talk about quality and
standards, do you refer to the region
or do you go even beyond?
Surely we compare ourselves with the
local market and then with the region
since our products have a target not only
restricted within the country. We have
gone much further, beyond Kosovo,
Macedonia and the region in general. The
region has shown its own interest and
part of our clients are there as well. We
think we have potential to reach faraway
clients such as in Russia, Netherlands,
Sweden, Norway and others who are
clear what they want.
Mr. Arben Memo - CEO of ManeTCI
ManeTCI can be doubled in
the next five years.
We have a lot to say and to
do.

BUSINESS UPDATE
86
BUSINESS UPDATE
Albania and Hungary to Boost Each Other With Wizz Air
April 6, 2017, 17:00 - The Albanian Transport Minister Sokol Dervishaj and the Hungar-
ian Minister of State for Transport, Robert Homolya were on the board of the plane
which landed in “Mother Teresa” airport to official launch the direct flight of Wizz Air
airline in Albania.
Both representatives stated that the low
cost flights from Tirana to Budapest will
help both countries to promote tourism
and trade contacts. Minister Dervishaj
spoke about the increase of number of
similar flights in the future and the possi-
bility that Albanians will be traveling with
cheaper tickets.
On the other hand, Homolya considered
this “a great moment in the lives of the
two countries and a big step towards the
promotion of tourism between the two
countries.”
First Dutch trade mission in the textile
sector in Albania
Twelve representatives of Dutch textile
and fashion companies visited Tirana and
other cities of Albania early last April to
explore partnership opportunities in
textile and fashion. This was the first trade
mission from the Netherlands to Albania.
The Dutch representatives visited 23
companies and factories. The mission
focused on corporate social responsibil-
ity, looking at the work processes,
technology used and labor standards that
the Albanian textile sector offers.
The geographical distance between the
two countries enables fast production
and delivery, making the Albanian market
potentially attractive for Dutch investors.
Furthermore, the advanced technology,
high quality but low-priced labor costs are
considered advantages of the Albanian
market.
The Ambassador of the Kingdom of the
Netherlands, Dewi van de Weerd, and
representatives of AIDA welcomed the
mission and highlighted the comparative
advantages that can benefit both
countries. She said: "Corporate Social
Responsibility is a business case in
Albania. Applying these standards has
great potential for Made in Albania
brands".
The mission was followed by workshops
on Corporate Social Responsibility
concepts and branding of “Made in
Albania”, including online branding.
Textile students of the Polytechnic
University worked together with fashion
students of the University of Arts. They
developed four start-up ideas together.
This initiative was financed by the Dutch
government through the Netherlands
Enterprise Agency and implemented by
CSR Netherlands in close cooperation
with AIDA – Albanian Investment Devel-
opment Agency.
30 July 2017

31
Kosovo’s EIC Held Its 4th General Assembly
PRISHTINA - European Investors Council (EIC) of Kosovo held its 4th General Assem-
bly on 24th of May 2017. During this important event, sponsored by SIGAL UNIQA
Group Austria – Kosova, the Honorary Member of the EIC Board, the Head of the EU
Office in Kosovo, Nataliya Apostolova, congratulated all the EIC members and its
Board.
In the presence of the President of the EIC Board of Directors, Mr. Robert Erzin and the
EIC Executive Director, Mr. Shpend Balija, she delivered certificates to five new
members including SIGAL UNIQA Group Austria, Kosova, represented in this event by
its Executive Director, Mr. Mal Berisha who is also EU Relations Director in the EIC.
The membership of SIGAL UNIQA Group
Austria, Kosova in the EIC is an important
moment for the further progress of this
company towards the European standards.
BUSINESS UPDATE
Transavia: Let’s Celebrate!
The first direct flight from Amsterdam to
Tirana by Transavia was inaugurated on May
4, 2017. "Direct affordable flights will lead to
more business, study and tourism. Visiting a
country enables you to get to know it and
make friends." said Netherlands’ Ambassa-
dor to Albania, Dewi van de Weerd, accord-
ing to an official Facebook posting of the
Embassy on the day of the inaugural. Nether-
lands is making great efforts to promote
sustainable tourism in Albania.
In the framework of this event, a mission
from Transavia and Dutch tour-operators
visited Albania to explore the market and
see the ways of collaboration with the
Albanian tour operators.
A workshop was organized followed by a
B2B session. The tour operators also visited
the cities of Berat and Kruja with a lot of
interest. This initiative was supported by the
Embassy of the Netherlands in Albania, in
cooperation with Internationaal Onderne-
men - RVO.nl.
Photo source: Embassy of the
Netherlands in Albania
July 2017
Executive Director of SIGAL in Kosovo,
Mr. Mal Berisha

32
BUSINESS UPDATE
Memorandum of Understanding on
cooperation in solar power develop-
ment signed in Tirana
The EBRD and the government of
Albania are stepping up their support for
the development of renewable sources
of energy in the country, according to a
press release of EBRD Albania.
On May 3, 2017, Albania’s Minister of
Energy and Industry, Damian Gjiknuri and
EBRD Head of Albania, Matteo Colangeli
signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) in the capital Tirana with the goal
to stimulate sound investments in solar
power generation.
The document will develop projects in
Albania through an auction-based
system, in accordance with international
best practice. Implementation of the
MoU’s roadmap will significantly increase
the attractiveness of investments in solar
power generation in the country and thus
lessen Albania’s reliance on hydropower
and energy imports, the press release
says.
EBRD Head of Albania, Matteo Colangeli,
said: “The signing of this Memorandum is
a very important step towards establish-
ing solar power generation in Albania.
The government and the EBRD will
cooperate in developing and implement-
ing a framework for the allocation,
through a competitive bidding process
for private investors in the building,
owning and operating of solar power
projects in Albania with a total combined
capacity of 50-100 MW. We look forward
to working with the government towards
turning this objective into reality.”
Minister of Energy and Industry, Damian
Gjiknuri added: "Increasing the use of
renewable energy technologies is an
important step towards a more sustain-
able development, which brings great
benefits to the Albanian industry. Solar
energy can also be the strategic solution
to reduce the dependence on imports,
and improve not only the security of
energy supply but also the country's
macroeconomic and political security.”
To date, the EBRD has invested more
than €1 billion in 77 projects in Albania.
Infrastructure and energy are the largest
sectors of EBRD investments, reflecting
both the country’s most pressing needs
and strongest potential.
Al Habtoor Investment LLC to Build a
Tower in Tirana
Albania's parliament has given its
approval for negotiations with a Dubai-
based company - Al Habtoor Investment
LLC - to build a 350-meter (1,148-foot) -tall
tower in the capital, Tirana.
The time when these negotiations will
start is not yet defined. The Dubai
company will build a $250 million (235
million euros) Tirana Iconic Tower project.
The Al Habtoor Group has grown with the
United Arab Emirates. What started out as
a small engineering firm in 1970, is today
one of the region’s most respected
conglomerates with interests in the hospi-
tality, automotive, real estate, education
and publishing sectors. The Al Habtoor
Group has earned itself a solid reputation
both locally and internationally due to the
vision of its Chairman, Khalaf Ahmad Al
Habtoor.
10 Years of SIGAL-UNIQA Cooperation
UNIQA International AG, Chairman of the
Management Board (CEO), Mr. Wolfgang
Kindl, paid a visit in Albania to celebrate
the 10th anniversary of the entrance of
UNIQA Insurance Group, the first
European investor, in Albanian insurance
market through SIGAL, leader insurance
company in Albania. On May 18, 2017, Mr.
Kindl, accompanied by Mr. Avni Ponari,
CEO of Sigal UNIQA Group for Albania
and the Austrian Ambassador to Albania,
Mr. Johann Statler, gave a live press
conference in the premises of Sheraton
Hotel in Tirana.
During this press conference, Mr. Kindl
said that the company he represents has
Albania, Kosovo and Macedonia a priority
and will continue to invest in the markets
of these countries. Whereas Mr. Ponari
said that UNIQA has been one of the
major actors in the development of
Albanian insurance market
July 2017
View from the live press conference in
the premises of Sheraton Hotel in Tirana

Japanese cuisine lovers have the opportunity to experience deliciously ubiquitous Japanese food
at Yamato, the first restaurant of this kind in Tirana.
Located in one of the most
popular areas of the capital,
Yamato has offered expertly
crafted traditional Japanese
food for 8 years now. Yamato
kitchen is a true culinary
laboratory, where the Japanese
chef brings out the best taste
of ingredients.
The restaurant is opened for its guests from 12:00 to 23:00 every day of the week.
Free Delivery & Booking, please call: +355 66 600 6905 or +355 4 225 8238
Address: “Ibrahim Rugova”Str, Building No. 24, Floor No. -1
Sushi, sashimi, guncan, yakimono and many other typical
dishes of Japan are as pleasant in view as delicious in
taste, by also combining nutritional values.
YAMATO TIRANA

34
RECRUITMENT
Dr. Pendl& Dr.Piswanger Albania, has been
operating in Albania and Kosovo since the
end of 2000, offering a full range of HR
Services with particular emphasis on
executive search and personnel
development, actively providing
recruitment services, trainings, profiling
and Assessment Centers.
To date P&P Albania has supplied
services to companies operating in the
following sectors:
• Infrastructure and Energy
• Oil and Mining Industry
• Banking
• Telecommunication
• Tourism and Hotel
• FMCG and distribution
We meticulously serve our clients
through our set of values of bridging
borders and cultures, by consulting our
clients to understand the requirements of
a specific market or culture while provid-
ing access on a global level and under-
standing everyone’s issues to provide
suitable processes and customized
solutions.
We respect, involve and develop people.
We respect other opinions. We work
together in finding solutions, in explain-
ing decisions and we support each other.
We deliver what we promise- and even
more. We are reliable, fast and flexible in
meeting your requirements. We add
value to whatever we do. We guarantee
complete confidentiality. We commit
ourselves not to communicate any
confidential information without your
agreement.
Personnel Search and Selection
Searching and winning specialist and
management executives is increasingly
challengeing. As a result of our many
years experience, you benefit from our
know-how as a Full-Service-Consultant.
To locate the "best heads" for your organ-
isation, we pursue tailored search strate-
gies matching your needs and requi-
rements.
Executive and International Search
Special positions require exceptional
candidates. To find these candidates, we
use a well-structured process and the
newest technology for in-depth research,
employing our consultants‘ extensive
experience and full competency for your
benefit: Via Executive Search we ensure
that you are able to hire the right manag-
ers for your secure future success.
Our consultants have the necessary
experience and are experts in providing you
with a structured evaluation of candidates’
potential and level of competence. As
shareholders of InterSearch, we have
international expertise at our disposal for
cross border personnel searches.
Management Audit
This audit focuses on the essential
competences, strengths, and the devel-
Highly qualitative solutions for all
areas of HR management
opment potential of managers. The
qualifications of your managers are deter-
mined through a wide variety of methods,
including interviews and profiling.
Profiling
ProfileXT is a technologically advanced
Online-Profiling-System for measuring
human potential and predicting success
at the workplace whilst also providing
concrete input for improvement.
Personnel and Organisational
Development
Based on your company goals, we
support you with various dynamic,
systemic personnel development
activities – all being tailored to your
organisation, requirements and goals.
Outplacement / New Placement
Outplacement is a "soft" form of employ-
ment termination and is designed to ease
the transition of a proven manager or
specialist into a new employment
contract in a new company.
Predictive Index®
The Predictive Index predicts primary
personality characteristics and cognitive
ability so you can predict workplace
behaviors and on-the-job performance
July 2017
Bianca Duro,
Managing Director
P&P, WIFI, bit Albania

35
RECRUITMENT
CONTINUOUS EDUCATION IN ALBANIA
The Austrian Institute of Excellence (AIEx) offers training courses and qualification
in all industries. We provide the professional edge that equips businesses and
professionals with distinct competitive advantages for the businesses of tomorrow.
Fifteen years ago, Dr. Pendl& Dr. Piswanger People sh.p.k. and we offered not
only personnel placement but also softskills training.
Once we started, we realized the immense need for softskills training. For this
reason, we created WIFI Albania sh.p.k. by entering into a franchise agreement with
WIFI International. Austrian Business Promotion Institute (WIFI) International /
Austria is the largest training provider in Austria with more than 370,000 partici-
pants per year and more than 4000 coaches.
The motto of WIFI is "From practice to practice" and therefore most of the trainers
come from the private sector. WIFI is a subsidiary company of the Austrian Chamber
of Commerce. AIEx offers a wide range of resources for business professionals
concerned with raising levels of resilience within their organization.
July 2017
From the Practice,
For the Practice

36
RECRUITMENT
AIEx stands for excellence in the business
continuity and its international certifica-
tions provide assurance of technical and
professional competency.
After some time, in addition to softskills
training courses, we also started with
technical training. In 2012 we launched a
project, funded by the Austrian Develop-
ment Agency (ADA), with the aim of imple-
menting EU standards in the field of metal
construction. We have trained more than
600 welders and certified over 400 of
them. The welding certificates are
EU-recognized and our welding training
center is also EU certified. In this project,
we have trained 14 Albanian coaches in
order to be able to offer training with
Albanian coaches.
The certification is still carried out by the
WIFI Certification Body in Austria. We have
introduced in Albania the EU standards in
the metal sector and now for metal compa-
nies, we also offer CE certifications
according to the EU standard 1090. After
this sector has expanded, we offer training
not only with WIFI but also with the Project
Management Institute (PMI) for Project
Managers, with Holzforschung Austria in
the wood sector and with Austrian
coaches in the agriculture sector, thus the
Austrian Institute of Excellence. We offer,
with Austrian partners, the entire range of
training that Albania needs.
What is our experience in Albania
regarding continuous education?
In Austria, 60 percent of employees in the
age of 15 to 50 attend at least one further
training course per year, approximately 40
percent are company training which is
paid training for the employees and in 60
percent of the cases are the employers
themselves who finance their further
training.
Of course, these seminars are not always
about professional training, but they are
also seminars for private interests such as
language learning, as well as further
training for hobbies, etc. However, accord-
ing to a survey, 92 percent of the compa-
nies in Austria finance further training
courses and around 10 percent of WIFI
customers are companies. Here in
Albania, a significant catch-up needs to be
established.
The future of work
WIFI Management in cooperation with a
research institute conducted a study
regarding the future of our working
environment. Fundamentally the same
results apply in Albania too.
The authors entitled the study "Work
2040” in which they highlighted the
effects that digitalization, internationaliza-
tion and technical innovations have on our
work and on the business world. One
factor made the survey more than clear:
only with technology it will not work in the
future. In fact, lifelong learning is an impor-
tant key. Some 80% of the interviewees
said that as a company, in order to be able
to meet the changing working conditions,
training is essential.
Training will have to be enhanced by
workers. The formal education remains an
important factor, but additional and further
professional training, for example in form
of certificates, will continue to play an
increasingly important role.
Sandra Prandtner, Head of the WIFI
Management Forum, at the presentation
of the study said that: "This is especially
true for managers. In order to provide the
right solutions and the right offers for
management training, we wanted to
explore where needs and interests are
shown”. The adaptation of the way of
July 2017

37
RECRUITMENT
thinking and of the corporate culture is
also an important method to keep pace
with digitalization.
Human and Machines
“The answer to the changing world of
work in 2040 is clearly shown in the acqui-
sition of abilities and additional knowledge
within the own branch, as well as in the
field of digitalization. Lifelong learning and
further professional training is in 2040 no
longer a voluntary exercise, but a duty.
The idea of a flexible (time and location
independent) job could become in 2040
an “Always-and-everywhere” job, which
would break the boundaries between
work and leisure. The study “Work 2040”
demonstrates that in our future work we
will deal more and more with digitalization.
Martin Giesswein, lecturer of the WIFI
Management Forum seminars in the area
of digitalization competences added: “It is
Important that business executives
engage with successful methods of
transformation.”
Technology should not be the sole
purpose, but the human being and his
digital competencies should be the major
focus. Three-quarters of the interviewees
estimated digital competence as one of
those skills whose importance will
increase in the future. 78 percent were of
the opinion that the personal compe-
tences would become even more impor-
tant, while 53 percent saw linguistic and
intercultural competences as most impor-
tant. Almost half of them emphasized
methodological and social competencies.
Still, the communication competences and
professional ones are mentioned with
more than 50 percent: "Here, there will be
a clear shift, in order to design optimal
training courses.”
Sandra Prandtner says: “At the moment,
communication and management compe-
tencies are before the personal and the
digital ones, but they are still a topic, which
is out of the people’s focus for their further
education.”
The study authors, however, not only
asked for changes in the work itself, but
they also tried to draw a picture of how
these changes affect our lives: two thirds
of the surveyed decision-makers expect
that digitization will lead to more stress in
the job. The often-conjured theme of
"teleworking" does not seem to have a
future: in 2040 people will still work from
an office, but work and leisure time will
continue to mix with each other.
What can we derive for our market in
Albania?
In addition to the professional qualifica-
tion, there is also a lack of concentration,
productivity, time management, team skills
etc. Especially in this area, there is a
tremendous need for professionals to
catch up. Especially young people after
their study have to be better trained, in
order to get along in the business world.
The EU LISBON STRATEGY, which
promotes employability, flexibility, creativ-
ity and competitiveness, must also be
promoted in Albania. The LISBON STRAT-
EGY is mainly concerned with strengthen-
ing the contribution that lifelong learning
has to personal development, social
cohesion, active citizenship, gender
equality and the inclusion of people with
special needs, as well as in increase of the
quality of the adult education. We want to
offer the Eco-C European communication
certificate in Albania in order to especially
prepare graduate students and career-
oriented people for the challenges of the
economy in the upcoming years. ECO-C
consists of four modules:
1. Teamwork
2. Self-Management
3. Conflict Management
4. Communication
There are AIEx training
courses to cater for all
levels of experience, for
both individuals and
organizations, from
entry-level training to
certification training to
increase the capacities
of Albanian professionals
and businesses, as we
are currently supporting
various businesses in
Albania and Kosovo
towards successfully
reaching their full
capacity.
July 2017

38
AVIATION NEWS
Mr. Alexander Tolweth, Country Manager of Lufthansa
for Bulgaria, Albania, Macedonia and Kosovo,
accompanied by Mr. Peter Pullem, Senior Director
Sales of Lufthansa Group, was in Albania to celebrate
the 10th anniversary of Lufthansa in this country.
He states in an exclusive interview with FOLLOW
BUSINESS ALBANIA that he is proud of the German
airliner’s balance sheet in Albania.
“For us, Albania develops very quickly and positively.
This is also why we decided to connect Tirana in
addition to Vienna also to our biggest airport
Frankfurt,” Tolweth said.
In the long term, he would like to see an increased
capacity to Frankfurt and a connection to Munich hub.
In 2016, Lufthansa Group in Albania has seen the
biggest growth in the region.
“We welcomed more than 220 000 passengers on
board which are an increase of 10% to previous year.
We have especially increased our passenger figures to
USA & Canada,” Tolweth said.
Lufthansa Turns 10 in
Albania, Proud of What It
Has Achieved
By Rudina HOXHA
As Lufthansa Group, we are now
offering 21 weekly ﬂights out of
Tirana connecting Albanians to
our hub airports Frankfurt
(Lufthansa) & Vienna (Austrian
Airlines) and beyond with
connections to 308 Destinations –
that’s a balance sheet we are very
proud of.
July 2017
On May 4th 2017, a big celebration was
held at the Tirana International Airport to
mark 10 years of Lufthansa in Albania.

What is your opinion about Albania in
comparison with the other countries
you are responsible for, i.e. Kosovo,
Macedonia and Bulgaria?
It is impossible to compare these markets
– I enjoy being able to order a Shopska
The country is beautiful with its coastline
as well as breathtaking mountains.
Albanians have a good sense of business
and know how to offer a good service.
Therefore, I am convinced development
will be fast when it is in the right hands.
How is the sale trend going in Albania
in comparison with the region?
Albania has seen last year the biggest
growth in the region. We welcomed more
than 220000 passengers on board
which are an increase of 10% to previous
year. We have especially increased our
passenger figures to USA & Canada.
How have Albanian passengers’ needs
towards Lufthansa changed over
time?
One thing that has not changed is the
high expectations of Albanians when it
comes to reliability, product & service. I
observed during my time here that it is
very important for Albanians to fly with
airlines of high reputation.
I think this is part of our success.
We also see a very big increase in the
usage of technology which changes how
Albanians book flights (eg. through
internet pages) as well as what they
expect during the flights – for example,
internet connection in the air.
Our customers expect us to communi-
cate with them quickly and directly
through technology. This is why we are
constantly improving these services
trying to digitalize and individualize our
communication.
For example, in case of flight delays,
customers are informed immediately on
their smart phones before arriving at the
airport. When spending a lot of time at
our airports for transit they might get s
special offer to use the lounge. There are
AVIATION NEWS
39
On May 4th
, Lufthansa celebrated its
10th anniversary in Albania. As the
Country Manager, please can you tell
us about the balance sheet of those
10 years?
Yes, we are very proud to celebrate this
year our 10th
anniversary of continuous
service to Albania. Our history even goes
back all the way to 1989 when LH
operated its first flight between Frankfurt
and Tirana.
So we have a long history together and
since 10 years we fly without any
interruptions.
As Lufthansa Group we are now offering
21 weekly flights out of Tirana connecting
Albanians to our hub airports Frankfurt
(Lufthansa) & Vienna (Austrian Airlines)
and beyond with connections to 308
Destinations – that’s a balance sheet we
are very proud of.
Salad & some Koefte in each of these
countries but when it comes to the
aviation industry they are completely
different.
For us, Albania develops very quickly and
positively. This is also why we decided to
connect Tirana in addition to Vienna also
to our biggest airport Frankfurt.
July 2017
The famous Albanian actress Eliza
Dushku, was part of Lufthansa's
celebrations as the face of this year’s 9th
FAI World Paragliding Accuracy
Championship.

What are the greatest achievements
of Lufthansa Group? Can you make a
fact sheet?
We are profitable high quality airline
group. While many airlines in Europe are
struggling, our first quarter results have
been the best since 2008. We are using
this strong performance to further invest
in our products, technology, reliabilityand
in our network.
We just received first deliveries of our
new A350 aircraft – the world’s most
advanced and environmental friendly
long haul aircraft. We are currently rolling
out internet access also on our European
fleet. In many aspects such as environ-
ment, technology, safety and reliability
we are industry leaders which I would say
is our greatest achievement
40
AVIATION NEWS
many more examples we are currently
working on.
After 10 years in Albania, what
should they expect next from
Lufthansa Group Airline?
We will continue our path of stable and
reliable growth. I personally would like to
see in the long term increased capacity
to Frankfurt and a connection to our
Munich hub.
Generally speaking, people are worried
about the high prices of tickets. What
do you think about this concern?
Yes, I hear this very often and we try to
fight against this perception. You can get
good prices flying with us - when you
book longer in advance you can fly to
European destinations for less than 200
EUR. When you book last minute, yes,
prices are higher, because there are not
many seats left. Many people see special
promotions of Low Cost Airlines where
they advertise that you can fly for only a
few Euros. However, when you add up all
the extra charges and you book a week
in advance, the final price is suddenly
very high.
We believe in offering a fair & transparent
price policy: you get what you book and
our prices offer good value for money.
Our focus is not just price but also quality.
The country is beautiful with
its coastline as well as
breathtaking mountains.
Albanians have a good sense
of business and know-how to
offer a good service.
Therefore, I am convinced
development will be fast when
it is in the right hands.
I hope that our success
story in Albania will
continue…. and this will
only happen if we
manage to satisfy our
Albanian customers, so
we will do our best.
July 2017
Mr. Alexander Tolweth speaking at the
Tirana International Airport.

During the presentation of “Herman Bernstein,
U.S Ambassador to Albania” at the YIVO Institute of
Jewish Studies in Manhattan, New York. Dec. 2014
The book archives of Albanian diplomat, historian and
publicist, Mr. Mal Berisha will soon have a new addition.
The new book titled “The American in the Royal Court of
King Zog" ("Amerikani në Oborrin e Mbretit Zog”), is an
outcome of a long, systematic and dedicated work by Mr.
Berisha. It will cast light on the connections of the
remarkable US-Jewish personality, Herman Bernstein,
former US Ambassador to Albania from 1930 to 1933 with
Albania.
The book, which will include Mr. Bernstein’s most selected
works and his activity as a diplomat in Albania, is about
to see the light soon. This was recently confirmed by the
author on his official Facebook account.
The book is expected with a high interest given that its
facts have never been published before.
Somewhat Mr. Mal Berisha satisﬁes the readers’ curiosity on
Bernstein. “To give an idea on Mr. Bernstein, I must say that he
was a friend of three US Presidents, namely Theodore
Roosevelt (1901 -1909), Woodrow Wilson (1913 – 1921) and
Herbert Hoover (1929 – 1933). He interviewed some of the most
famous people in the world such as Leo Tolstoy, Leon Trotsky,
Auguste Rodin, George Bernard Shaw, Sigmund Freud,
Aleksandër Moisiu, and above all, he had a personal friendship
with Albert Einstein,” Mr. Mal Berisha says.
After underlining that Bernstein was a friend of the Albanians in
Albania and in the United States, Mr. Berisha provides some
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Book on Remarkable
Herman Bernstein to See
the Light Soon
41
BOOK PAGE
July 2017
article excerpts, written by Bernstein on his impressions on
Albania, in September 1933.
“Over the last three years and a half, Tirana was for me the most
magniﬁcent observing post. There I learned that unlike the
impressions on Albania as one of the most dangerous places in
the Europe, the Albanians are peaceful people while their
government undoubtedly exerts a peaceful policy in the
Balkans. Practically I have visited every part of Albania out of
which I learned to know and love the Albanian people, whose
simplicity, authenticity in action, hospitality and kindness, had
left indelible traces in me.”
A distinguished diplomat, history scholar and a transla-
tor, Mr. Mal Berisha has published a number of books and
articles about various subjects of history, culture, and
diplomacy.
Some of his history books and studies already published
include: “Albanians, Oaks on the Illyrian Soil”, a full study of The
National Geographic Magazine articles focusing on Albania and
Albanians in a course of over 100 years (2007); “Albanians, the
Youngest and Most Ancient Europeans” (2008); “Charles
Telford Erickson, A Life Dedicated to Albania” (2012); “Herman
Bernstein, U.S Ambassador to Albania” (December 2014), (in
English). Berisha presented this book at the YIVO Institute of
Jewish Studies in Manhattan, New York and later on at the U.S
Embassy in London. This book details the close relations
between Jews, Albanians, and the United States Government.
“Realities of the Albanian–British Relations” (in Albanian) is
Berisha’s latest book, published in 2015 on the eve of closing
his mission to the UK. The book was launched at the Regent
University of London and the British Embassy in Tirana.
Mr. Berisha has captured the attention of the public with
his soft-spoken articulation of the issues and
expert-based approach to diplomatic relations of Albania,
appearing in the majority of the national news outlets of
the country and abroad.

42
DIPLOMACY
By Rudina HOXHA
ABOUT GSD
The Geneva School of Diplomacy &
International Relations (GSD) is a
small, private university
located in the heart of the most
diplomatic neighborhood of the
world in Geneva, Switzerland.
The GSD offers Academic degree
programs from the Bachelor to the
Doctorate level and tailored
courses for professionals from the
public, private and non-proﬁt
sectors. It provides the students with
personal and exclusive interaction
with highly distinguished faculty
members in a stimulating and
international environment. Studying
at GSD means having direct access
to the tremendous potential of
internship-and-networking
possibilities in Geneva.
The GSD’s purpose is to prepare
future world leaders for their roles
on the world stage to advance
peace and human rights. Its high
quality of education is presented by
well-respected and renowned
professors: statesmen- and women,
and ambassadors.
The GSD stands for a unique
combination of conceptual courses
focused on theory and the
development of essential diplomatic
skills.
Understanding the world around us -
past, present and future - and
inﬂuencing that world in a more
humane and productive direction, is
what the Geneva School of
Diplomacy is all about.
Learn more about us on
www.genevadiplomacy.ch.
Donis Sadushaj: “The
Geneva School of Diplomacy
Is Helping me to Reach
Another Quality of
Diplomacy for Albania”
“I think being educated in GSD is an asset for Albania, an
invaluable advantage which can be applied in various
Albanian institutions, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Albanian Diplomatic Academy or various universities.”
July 2017
"Personally I would suggest the development of economic
diplomacy as a way to further boost Albania. This will
bring more foreign direct investments and promote the
image of the country. In this respect, my future project
might focus on the diplomatic promotion of Albania in the
international arena through the progress of economic
diplomacy," said Sadushaj, the only student from Albania
in the GSD.

Donis Sadushaj alongside with his class and Mr. Thierry Delachaux
Managing Director of GSD
43
DIPLOMACY
Please can you tell us a bit about
your studies and what’s that part of
success that you attribute to The
Geneva School of Diplomacy?
I have been studying international
relations at the Geneva School of
Diplomacy (GSD) for two years now. It is a
private institution dealing with diplomacy,
international relations and business, so it
is a mix of international relations with
global business.
As an Albanian student, my mindset has
been totally changed thanks to this
prestigious School. My knowledge on
international relations and various global
development aspects have progressed
forward.
This is also a result of the faculty who are
mostly conspicuous ambassadors, UN
high ranking representatives and other
personalities from various institutions in
Geneva which is considered the interna-
tional city of peace and the hub of 250
international organizations.
The extensive experience of the GSD’s
President in the field of human rights
and UN system has brought around the
School a huge number of ambassadors
and former ambassadors, former aides,
governmental officials who teach here.
Part of my studies at GSD is an intern-
ship which is obligatory. Actually I intern
at the International Telecommunications
Union (ITU), which is part of the UN
system, specialized in telecommunica-
tions, satellites, development field etc. It
was the School which helped me to find
the internship as this is a bit hard due to
the keen competition among the
international institutions. This internship
has helped me to see the world
differently while has boosted my
personal intellectual development.
On the other hand, in the organization
where I intern as a junior officer, I have
been trying to support and highlight the
name of my own country. The sector I
cover is innovation and development. It
is mostly focused on member outreach. I
have noticed that Albania is not repre-
sented in the ITU by any state or private
institution. So, during my internship, I
have been trying to focus on Albania as
the ITU deals with the development of
rural smart sustainable cities and
telecommunications as key to progress.
The GSD’s special lectures on emerging
issues, persisting challenges,multilateral
securities studies, international law – a
two year course - has made me think
deeply how to apply the law on the
international arena. The top notch
professors have helped me to under-
stand more the practical side of the
diplomacy besides the theoretical
aspect. In this aspect, my previous
education in law, comes to my aid as
well.
Let’s talk practically. What new
elements have you taught in exerting
diplomacy?
Diplomatic training is a subject we do
also. Say, if a group of Albanian
diplomats want to have a good training,
they can come to the GSD. What we
students, do, in another setting, in every
subject we take is that we test our
diplomatic knowledge in negotiations,
rules of proceedings, how a UN confer-
ence takes place, how to follow
diplomatic bargaining, i.e. everything
related to diplomacy.
Even our personal presentation is done
according to the diplomatic regulations
we have gained since the very begin-
ning. The School provides diplomatic
etiquette and diplomatic protocol,
taught by a very conspicuous Swiss
Professor who is etiquette and protocol
adviser for many international govern-
ments, Mr. Bernard De Muralt. He is from
Switzerland and comes from an aristo-
cratic family.
July 2017

44
DIPLOMACY
In what way, have you thought to
bring a small change to Albania in a
near future?
Since we are talking about diplomacy, the
Albanian foreign policy is one of the most
serious institutions in Albania. I have
been mostly inspired in the field of
diplomacy, by Dr. FatosTarifa since I have
studied his literature. I can mention one of
his books –“Fati i një shekulli” (“The
Destiny of a Century”) which has inspired
me deeply as it shows how to develop
diplomacy and international relations in
the 21th century. Dr. Tarifa is ranked
among the best international scholars.
Internationally speaking, my everlasting
inspiration remains the bible of
diplomacy, Henry Kissinger.
But there are other names, diplomats or
historians who are part of my lectures and
books who stir my interest to study
diplomacy. But when we speak about
diplomacy, this is a very broad field. So,
likewise I think that a diplomat must have
a broad and complete social and intellec-
tual background. He/she must remain
updated to the details throughout the
time.
What I can give to my country in a near
future is what I am importing from GSD
intellectually, i.e. another quality of
diplomacy. I would suggest everyone to
consider the possibility to study at GSD if
they want to embrace another quality of
diplomacy. Not only because the School
is of a high reputation but because
Geneva is the heart of diplomacy and
teaches you how to create relations and
how multilateralism works to date.
We should not forget that Geneva houses
influential institutions and organizations
such as the World Trade Organization,
Red Cross, UNHCR, World Intellectual
Property Organization and many others.
The GSD is the place where you meet
professors from the terrain who work in
the conflict areas, such as, Syria, Yemen,
Iraq or Red Cross Organization and they
share their experiences and stories with
us. They make you see another reality.
They fill you with emotions but at the
same time, they teach you how the
diplomats must act and not get influenced
by the emotions.
On the other hand, there are various
professors, such as the US Ambassador
of Trade,attached to World Trade Organi-
zation, who has acted as an adviser to
different governmental leaders, who
share with us the history of making
negotiations since they have been part of
big decision-making processes. They
share with us the best of their experi-
ences. I think being educated in GSD is
an asset for Albania, an invaluable advan-
tage which can be applied in Albanian
institutions, Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Albanian Diplomatic Academy or various
universities.
What is your favorite aspect of
diplomacy?
Most of all, I am fond of security and
disarmament issues. The Disarmament
Office in Geneva is very interesting to me.
Since last year, I have been involved in
cyber security, terrorism and state
security issues. Recently, a group from
our University composed by me and
three other colleagues were capable of
winning the Cyber Security Challenge,
organized by the Atlantic Council and the
Geneva Centre for Security Policy, where
prestigious Universities from all over the
world participated, such as: Oxford
University, Stanford University, LSE, US
Naval Academy, Science Po (Paris), etc.
On the other side, being a member of
NATO, I think that Albania has all the
possibilities to implement and import as
many international aspects as possible
which are related to security field. In this
respect, Albania is heading forward but
still needs to benefit more from the
internationalization processes.
Another field I am interested in is the
international trade which surely increases
the position of Albanian state. In my view,
the Albanian state must prioritize its
relations with the World Trade Organization
in the coming years for the liberalization of
trade, lower tariffs etc. Moreover, Albania
has the benefit of having a favorable
geographical situation, a great coast and a
huge potential to develop agriculture.
Curious, how much do the GSD Faculty
know about Albania?
Many of the GSD professors are aware of
Albanian history. One of them is Prof.
Alexander Lambert who has written about
Albanian history. He teaches foreign
policy in GSD and writes about Albania
and its latest developments. Important to
highlight that we have the President of
The Geneva School of Diplomacy who
has played a key role in resolving the
conflict in Bosnia and he knows the
Balkans issues very well. Here, Albania is
viewed with positivism. A series of special
lectures have been held on Western
Balkans in GSD. Albania is key to the
security of the Western Balkans and the
latter offers much security for everyone
and not only for the Albanians living in the
region and further.
Everyone sees Albania as the nucleus of
security in the region.
July 2017

Donis Sadushaj
Membership Outreach Junior Officer
(Innovation Department, International
Telecommunication Union)
Representative at the Geneva School
of Diplomacy and International
Relations
Previous academic and professional
accomplishments include law and
commercial studies and continuous
experience in different institutions,
such as the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs, Ministry of Internal Affairs and
the Institute for Policy and Legal
Studies in Albania.
The previous experience and the
actual work at the Geneva School of
Diplomacy and International Relations
as an Administrative Assistant have
taught him to integrate easily into any
environment, work under strict
deadlines and quickly learn new
skills.
Moreover, being a representative of
the University in Geneva, Donis has
been very engaged in working with
external relations and seeking
different possibilities for cooperation
with other institutions, including
International Organizations and
several universities.
His experience as a Junior Officer for
six months with the International
Telecommunication Union (ITU), a
specialized agency of the United
Nations has given Donis the
opportunity to work with
professionals and get the best
expertise as well as the experience of
the daily management work of an
international organization.
45
IFC Headquarters in Washington D.C.
DIPLOMACY
What is the GSD’s invitation to Albanian prospect students?
For every student, who aims professionalism and experience, studying in GSD is the
best offer. Here you can feel the living heart of Geneva where there are 26 interna-
tional organizations and more than 190 non-governmental organizations such as
Amnesty International, and many others. Besides the quality of the studies, you have
the chance to track down the daily work of these prestigious organizations since it is
the School which gives you this possibility. As a student, I have access to every event
or meeting, organized by these organizations.
In addition, what the School provides the students with is a lot of flexibility. We cover
10 teaching hours per week in total. The rest is practice. Being part of GSD gives us
a lot of access. Visiting the 10-floor UN library, which dates back to the beginning of
20th century, is an excitement in itself.
Geneva is the perfect city to study. There are many Yales or Harvard students or
others from other reputable world universities who make the internships in Geneva.
Being part of GSD gives automatically this possibility. In addition, many GSD alumni
find employment in many Geneva-based international organizations or in the UN in
New York. It is important to underline that Geneva offers neutrality which is important
even for the students to understand the both sides of the coin. Here every student
touches the neutrality of the international organizations and the life itself.
The networking you benefit from the School is another asset of yours. It is not that
easy to find your own space in Switzerland but thanks to GSD, everything has become
easier for me and the other international students.
In addition, potential students have the possibility to spend one semester at George-
town or MGIMO/Russian Diplomatic Academy.
What do you deem as the major challenge for Albanian diplomacy? Do you see
any future project that you might involve yourself?
In my view, the primary challenge of Albanian diplomacy is the European integration.
Also, Albania has been seen as key to keeping the peace in the region. So, another
big challenge of Albanian diplomacy is maintaining the peace in the region.
Personally I would suggest the development of economic diplomacy as a way to
further boost Albania. This will bring more foreign direct investments and promote the
image of the country. In this respect, my future project might focus on the diplomatic
promotion of Albania in the international arena through the progress of economic
diplomacy
July 2017

46
TIME FOR REFORM
July 2017

TIME FOR REFORM
Government should be smart just as smart phones. Milena
Harito, Minister of State for Innovation and Public
Administration believes strongly in this, as she is leading
one of the most important reforms in the country; the one
on Public Administration. Which practically makes for a
smart government. By improving public services and having
a good and strong public administration, Albania heads
ahead on its path towards EU Accession, as this reform is
one of the five EU criteria, but also makes the life of every
Albanian easier and simpler, just like smart phones do.
In an exclusive interview with FOLLOW BUSINESS ALBANIA,
Minister Harito tells in facts and figures what is being done
to implement this reform as efficiently as possible so far,
as well as the significant role of ADISA which aims to set up
One Stop Shop Public services Centers all over the country,
by changing the way public services are delivered to
Albanian citizens from state institutions.
You are leading an important reform, that of the public
administration, which needs sustainability. How have you
managed to achieve that and through what components?
The reform in public administration is very important. Not by
chance, this reform is among the ﬁve criteria of the EU. This
means that this reform is important to build the rule of law and
all the mechanisms, which make Albania a modern state. We
have a clear framework how to implement this reform.
Milena Harito:
The nucleus of this reform
is a change of mentality for
the public administration
47
By Rudina HOXHA
This reform is fundamental because, it improves the services
that the public administration offers to the Citizen and
businesses. I consider the public administration as the blood
circulation system of the state: it receives the requests; it
provides the answers to the people; the economic develop-
ment of the country depends also on how efficient the public
administration is. As the public administration makes ﬂuid the
functioning of the state.
On the other hand, being on the verge of opening the EU talks,
the Albanian public administration will be soon facing a very
complex process. From the past experiences of others
countries, which have joined the EU, the accession talks take
many years and the public administration must be well
prepared to handle this long and complicated process.
To that purpose, we have started this reform from the scratch.
This has led to substantial changes in the last three years
because its factual implementation started in September 2014
under a total online transparent and automated system in order
to reduce the arbitrariness of the people to intervene in the
process. After all, this is what modernization means. The EU
Progress Reports of the last two years show that the recruiting
in civil service is the most solid progressing reform due to this
hard work on recruiting.
In addition, there are other components. One of them is the
career system. Practically the Albanian public administration
has lacked a career system. The recruiting has had an arbitrary
character. With the new law on civil service, people take on the
basic level and to get promoted, they need to go through the
career system. So, the law is the one, which guarantees the
career system and of course, the political will, to implement it.
What is very important to underline is that the nucleus of this
reform is the change of mentality. It was very difficult and
remains difficult to make people believe that they will be
recruited only on the basis of meritocracy and not because they
bribe, they are party militants or they have acquaintances. In
this respect, the EU integration and the unshaken will of the
government and the Premier‘s in particular have been key to
advance this reform.
Also crucial to this reform, is the public service delivery
reform. We have lacked for long good public service
delivery. What have been the challenges in leading and
implementing this difficult reform?
The main challenge has been the mentality. The people
themselves were creating the difficulties. All the representa-
tives in all the levels of the power were used to considering the
recruiting their own property. From the very moment a system
is established and no tolerances are made or the same rules
are equally applied for all, people start to accept it. Perhaps this
is one of the many dynamic elements : people are absorbing
the reforms easily.
Now all have agreed on this reform of the civil service in
Albania, even the opposition has not objected it, our interna-
tional partners recognize it as an achievement, and the most
important, about 50,000 candidates have participated to the
fair competitions in two years.
July 2017

Follow Business Albania july07 - preview

Follow Business Albania july07 - preview

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (6)

Similar to Follow Business Albania july07 - preview

Similar to Follow Business Albania july07 - preview (20)

More from FBA Publishing

More from FBA Publishing (8)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

Follow Business Albania july07 - preview