The Financial Intelligence Agency participated in the conference held on 30 January for the presentation of two projects of strategic importance, implemented by the Council of Europe with the support of the Swiss Government, through SECO. These projects aim to strengthen Albania’s institutional framework and operational capacities in the field of preventing and combating money laundering and corruption.
The conference was held with the special participation of Mr. Gianluca Esposito, Director General of Human Rights and Rule of Law at the Council of Europe, who in his opening remarks emphasized that the two projects support Albania’s reform efforts by strengthening the effective implementation of the integrity and anti-money laundering framework. He reiterated that sustainable progress depends on institutions delivering concrete results in practice, in line with European standards and Albania’s European aspirations.
The Director of the Financial Intelligence Agency underlined that these projects represent a concrete opportunity to strengthen the role of Albanian institutions, enhance analytical, technical and human capacities, and improve the practical and effective implementation of preventive measures in accordance with international standards and best practices.
Particular focus was placed on the project “Fight against Money Laundering in Albania”, financed by the Swiss Government through SECO, which will directly contribute to strengthening the capacities of the Financial Intelligence Agency, law enforcement agencies, supervisory authorities and the private sector, while supporting a risk-based approach and close inter-institutional cooperation.
In his address, the Director of the Financial Intelligence Agency expressed his appreciation for the support of the Swiss Government, the Swiss Embassy—particularly Her Excellency Ambassador Ms. Ruth Huber—as well as the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), for the prompt approval of this comprehensive project following the request submitted by the Financial Intelligence Agency. The project, with a significant implementation timeframe extending until 2029, is implemented within the framework of the strategic partnership with the Council of Europe, reflecting the professionalism and commitment of all teams involved.
The Financial Intelligence Agency reaffirmed its full commitment, together with the Inter-Institutional Technical Working Group composed of public institutions and private sector representatives, to actively and constructively contribute to the effective implementation of these projects.
This cooperation further strengthens Albania’s efforts to align with European Union standards and the recommendations of MONEYVAL and the FATF, aiming to achieve concrete and sustainable results in strengthening the rule of law, institutional integrity and financial security.
