The Assistant Secretary for the International Bureau of Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Todd D. Robinson, has started his visit to Albania, where he met with the head of Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK), Altin Dumani and the head of National Bureau of Investigation (BKH), Aida Hajnaj.

Todd D. Robinson, apart from Albania, will also visit Kosovo on March 20-22.

Through a post distributed on social networks by the US Embassy, ​​Robinson urged the Albanian institutions to continue the reforms, which according to him are bringing change to the country.

He also said that the US will rely on Albania as a partner in the fight against international crime and corruption in the Western Balkans.

“Today, Albanians are taking important steps to initiate difficult reforms. I want all of you to know that my colleagues and I in Washington recognize your hard work. But like any other hard work of strengthening democracy and increasing accountability, it is a long and difficult road. I wanted to encourage you firstly to know that you are bringing change and secondly not to give up, to continue.

We will rely on you as partners in the fight against international crime and corruption in the Western Balkans. But most importantly, Albanian citizens believe in you. And I can promise you that as you continue your work, the US government will be your partner in this and will walk alongside you in supporting you and Albania,” said Robinson.

The Embassy’s reaction:

At a reception with Albanian judges, prosecutors, investigators and leaders from Albanian justice agencies, Assistant Secretary Todd Robinson thanked our Albanian partners for their courage and commitment to the rule of law, transparency and ending impunity. He underlined the importance of an independent judiciary for Albania as it fights crime and corruption.