PM Rama’s speech at Harvard University: The economic development comes from knowledge and innovation

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama held a speech at the session of International Development Center at Harvard University during his official visit in USA. The speech unveiled the vision of the Albanian government on the economic model that must be followed, the economic and social renaissance of Albania.

“We are sure that we do not want to develop our economy dishonestly from the democracy regime, and we will never work to develop economically at the expense of freedom. Democracy can’t bide without economic development, but the economic development of a state can happen even without having a democratic regime. This is not our solution and it will never be. And, particularly at this point of view, we take as an example of inspiration countries where freedom is in power and where the economic development comes as a consequence of freedom and democracy. Recently, our government has adopted an encouraging package for garment industry businesses, which also includes the leasing of state facilities for 1 euro/ year; the offering of professional trainings for employers and backing regarding the social insurance costs for these businesses.

This package has entered in force since January 2014 and has shown positive results, owing to our efforts and the efficient collaboration with businesses and other partners in this field. Exports of garment sector increased by 26.08% in the period of January-August 2014, compared to the same period of a year before.  The Albanian government  is focused on establishing structures that will ensure the continuation and the success of foreign investments, based on knowledge,” stated Rama.

PM Rama added that, “the government is working to establish the Public-Private Unit of Partnership, under the competences of the Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Entrepreneurship.” According to Rama, this institution will make all efforts to support the implementation of new projects for foreign investors. These projects, he added, will help the Albanian government to maintain good relations with foreign investors and to establish dynamic enterprises that will contribute in the future.

“During the first year of governing Albania, we have noticed that the usage of knowledge networks, in an environment oriented toward the results and focused on innovation, the transformation is possible,” ended his speech Albanian Prime Minister, Edi Rama.

News source & photo credits: Kryeministria