Economy minister says Turkish investments are good example for others

TIRANA, Dec. 13 – Albania’ Economy Minister Dritan Prifti said earlier this week that Turkish investments in Albania were a good example of what foreign investors can achieve in Albania.
He said Turkish investments have multiplied in a very short time, while trade and economic cooperation between the two countries has seen significant increases.
“If five years ago Turkish investments were about 45 million dollars, today they account for about 1 billion dollars, while Albania-Turkey trade volume has increased to 350 million dollars,” Mr. Prifti said.
At the same time developed countries are experiencing the significant effects of the global economic crisis, Albania has become a more attractive place for foreign investors especially in the energy sector, mining, petroleum, construction and tourism, according to Mr. Prifti. Currently Turkish companies in Albania operate in areas such as telecommunications, banking, mining, education and others.
Minister Prifti says Albania guarantees foreign investors maximum support in terms of lowering administrative barriers and providing a business climate that is better than other countries in the region.
He made the comments at the Albanian-Turkish Business Forum, an event organized around a state visit by Turkish President Abdullah Gul Turkish. Albanian President Bamir Topi told the Albanian-Turkish Business Forum that there is proof already that Turkish companies and those from other countries can come to Albania and be successful.
“Our offer stands. Come to Albania to invest, having full confidence in our communication, security, goodwill and the right fiscal policies that will be long term and will create a strong economic relationship between us,” President Topi said.
While President Gul said the excellent political relations between the two countries offer great opportunities for economic exchanges as seen by entrepreneurs who have already invested.
“Turkish companies are very present in the Albanian market as is the case of telephony, banking, iron production, and others,” said Mr. Gul. “Similar business forums between the two countries are held every year.”