Remarks by USAID Mission Director, Edward Landau
Developing Albania's Gas Market
July 1, 2008

Honored Minister Ruli,
Honored Guests,

Albanians are pursuing several efforts to strengthen integration into the region. We’ve witnessed the invitation to NATO and increased trade with neighbors and other European Countries. Now we are signing an agreement that will enhance Albania's ability to develop its domestic gas market and to participate in regional gasification plans. 

The World Bank is leading regional studies on  developing a Balkan gas ring, which would bring the benefits of natural gas to many countries such as Albania that currently do not have access to significant supplies of this clean energy source.  The cooperation will help formulate common standards and practices to promote regional gas development.    

The program intends to strengthen Albanian institutions, promote rule of law, and help attract investments into the Albanian gas sector.  We expect it will also help the Albanian power sector and address the need for additional electricity supplies in the future. This will enhance Albanian energy security by providing needed diversification.

We anticipate hearing about some investment decisions for the Albanian gas sector as early as 2009, which might include extensions of pipelines from neighboring countries in conjunction with additional power generation.   

This MoU represents the continued support of the United States Government for the Albanian people. The work has already started with the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Energy. We have high expectations for success which will propel Albania’s economy to grow even more, by creating more jobs and higher income for people.

Thank You!

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