Zv. Ministri Sokol Duma: “Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today, as we have witnessed the presentation of a vision that will transform Albania’s economy, I am reminded of the words of Peter Drucker: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” I believe that today, Albania committed to shape its future by embracing innovation and the extraordinary potential of Artificial Intelligence, as a key to unlock the nation’s full potential.

We firmly believe in the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence—not simply as another technological advancement, but as a revolutionary leap forward, comparable only to historical breakthroughs such as electricity.

Just as electricity revolutionized our economies and lifestyles by illuminating cities and powering industries, AI today holds the promise of redefining knowledge creation, automating sophisticated processes, and transcending the traditional limits of human capability.

Several countries have demonstrated how investments in innovation and technology serve as a catalysts for economic transformation. Most notably, Estonia’s robust venture capital scene or Singapore’s SME revenue growth through digital platforms offer perfect examples of how strategic technological investment can transform national economies.

Albania has already set robust digital foundations to ensure effective AI integration. The rapid digitalization of government services, with 95% already accessible online, alongside the continuous modernization of our digital regulatory framework, sets a great standard.

Moreover, our proactive approach to digital infrastructure expansion, particularly the expansion of nationwide 5G networks and the extension of fiber-optic connections, creates the perfect environment for rapid and effective integration of AI technologies.

At the core of our digital ambition lies the Durana Tech Park—a visionary 18-million-euro investment strategically positioned between Albania’s two major cities, Tirana and Durrës. Durana Tech Park is more than just traditional infrastructure – it is a dynamic ecosystem that bridges academia, industry, startups, and innovators. It represents a substantial investment in our digital future, expected to generate more than 5,000 high-quality jobs and contribute significantly in our exports over the next two decades.

As those of you who will participate in this afternoons roundtable will learn, Durana’s competitive offering to international investors includes unparalleled fiscal incentives such as zero VAT and corporate income taxes, reduced dividend taxes, and favorable employment conditions.

These incentives significantly enhance Albania’s global competitiveness, positioning it as a strategic destination for international businesses seeking a sustainable and innovation-driven environment.

The Durana Tech Park represents our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Beginning as a virtual hub to minimize its initial ecological footprint, Durana will transition seamlessly into a physical site designed around renewable energy, advanced eco-friendly construction, and green infrastructure practices. This model integrates technological advancement with ecological sustainability, setting an ambitious benchmark for future developments.

Aligned with the digital roadmap presented today, Durana is integral to our strategy to establish Albania as the Balkans’ premier Green AI Hub. As outlined in the action plan, this initiative includes the AI Factory for public sector innovation, a specialized Data Hub for tourism and mobility, and a state-of-the-art Commercial Data Center powered by renewable energy.

Together, these flagship projects will generate new revenue streams, significantly contribute to local employment, and solidify Albania’s digital market positioning through sustainable and impactful AI development.

Durana Tech Park thus symbolizes Albania’s ambitious drive toward an innovative, digitally resilient, and environmentally responsible future.

Thank you”