Remarks at the Hope Fellowship Regional Conference

Remarks of USAID/Albania Mission Director, Roberta Mahoney
Hope Fellowship Regional Conference
November 13, 2008

Minister Pollo, distinguished guests, I am happy to have the opportunity to speak to you today.

USAID has been in the region for over 15 years, working in partnership with Albania and other countries in the region to strengthen governmental accountability and transparency, reduce corruption, increase the competitiveness of the private sector, and improve the delivery of quality healthcare, among other important endeavors.

Over these years much has been accomplished. We’ve seen economies grow, municipalities take on greater responsibilities, oversight institutions take on more responsibility, and other important advances.

All of this has occurred due to the strong leaders within institutions, governments, and civil society throughout Albania and the region.

With these advances, we have seen Albania move much closer to EU and NATO integration – a great accomplishment that all Albanians can be proud of.

Today, of course, we are here under the auspices of the Hope Fellowship – a broad ranging and important initiative carried out by the National Albanian American Council that is responsible for developing many of Albania’s strong leaders – as well as leaders throughout the region.

It is through events such as this one today that we all can debate and discuss Albania’s role in the region – and what must change in order to see greater integration into Europe.

Regional events such as this allow for a much broader and rich discussion of the current situation, and consequently, identification of the reforms that must take place to move forward.

Despite all the advances and gains, there remains much to do.

Therefore, I encourage you, over the next three days, to seek out and identify the changes that must take place in Albania and neighboring countries. To borrow a phrase from the recent U.S. elections, change we need—the reforms, the adaptations, and the challenges that must be addressed in order the region to progress even further toward your goals. 

I see the speakers list is filled with experts of all sorts from across the region. This is clearly where the motivation for change will come from.  You are the true leaders – paving the way for further advancements in Albania. I wish you the best success.

Faleminderit dhe sukses.