Albanian-American Association celebrates 60th anniversary

TIRANA, Aug. 5 – The Albanian-American National Organization celebrated its 60th anniversary over the weekend with a series of activities throughout Albania. There were many members, some 500 of them, who had come to the country for the first time.They visited Kruja, Korca, Durres, Saranda, Butrinti, Lezha and other places. They culminated with a party with all top Albanian leaders, politicians and senior officials. “Albanians are among the oldest people in Europe, an indisputable part of its culture, tradition and political history and that is why your return here would be back into a family,” said President Alfred Moisiu.
Head of the Albanian-American Fund Jeffrey Griffin spoke about the launch of the American Bank of Albania, and the participation in the rehabilitation of the Mother Teresa international airport as the two best cases of investment. “You have great possibilities and advantage to invest in this country,” Griffin told the members. “But you should stay here longer. Investment in Albania cannot be done coming here for a week and looking for a partner. Every week changes occur and laws change and you should be here to speak with the people.”
Prime Minister Sali Berisha said that “your voice and stand have been very important in the U.S. stand toward Albania.” Berisha also spoke about the government priorities, which he defined as creating Albania as a secure place, fighting against organized crime and corruption, and making Albania the most attractive country for foreign direct investment. He said that former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani was his example, comparing him a prosecutor who managed to destroy the Mafia in the U.S. Berisha said that the main goals are Albania’s integration into NATO and the European Union.