"What is happening in Albania can free Europe from Russia's dependence." This is what the US ambassador in Tirana, Yuri Kim, stated during the speech at the Assembly of the American Chamber of Commerce, while referring to energy sources in our country.
"Since February 24, when Russia invaded Ukraine, we have seen the impact it has had on the European economy and the energy sector, because it is really interdependent on natural gas.
Believe it or not, what is happening in Albania can bring a significant contribution to our relationship as a member of NATO and for Europe to be freed from dependence on Russia and any other source. So the diversification of energy suppliers can be realized through Albania, with what is happening here. The liquefied gas project in Vlora can bring 5 billion cubic meters of natural gas per year. The entire TAP has a capacity of 20 billion cubic meters of natural gas.
We are exploring the possibilities. All this will support our efforts to increase energy in Europe, especially to bring about 50 billion cubic meters of gas per year to Europe", emphasized Yuri Kim.
Ambassador Kim further stated that even more American investors will come to invest in Albania, but first the courts must be cleared and the rules implemented.
"Albanian business and society matter. Globalization has brought benefits to the US. Iran's cyber attacks on Albania have made it clear. The US has condemned Iran's attacks on Albania. The US is working with the Albanian government as a trusted seller. US investment in Albania is higher than ever before.We aim higher.
There is so much talent and opportunity that has yet to be tapped here. Something is happening. In other places where I served, you could sense when something was happening. I think that already because of the impact on our economies and stemming from what the Russians are doing, there is a little bit of discouragement.
I am telling you that based on my experience, something is happening in the air in Albania. There are opportunities here. If you didn't feel it here, you wouldn't be here. Let's be serious about identifying obstacles during the arrival of American investments to facilitate. When the courts are clean, we will have American investments in Albania. When investors realize that the rules apply equally to everyone," Yuri Kim said.