Tirana, 30 June 2023:  The Albanian National Agency of Civil Protection (NACP) convened a roundtable  bringing together international development partners who support the Albanian government's ongoing efforts in strengthening Disaster Risk Management (DRM) and the Civil Protection system in Albania.

Mr. Enkelejd Joti, Deputy Minister of Defense who attended the event, emphasized the pivotal role played by the NACP and acknowledged the invaluable support extended by international partners. “This collaborative partnership is instrumental in enabling Albania to meet the highest standards as a full member of the European Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) and fulfill the objectives outlined by the Sendai framework”, he said.

Speakers, included Ms. Petra Burcher, Deputy Head of Mission/Head of Development Cooperation at the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), Ms. Stefania Vizzaccaro, Head of the Italian Agency for Development and Cooperation (AICS) in the Western Balkans, Ms. Monica Merino, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Albania, and Mr. Denny Robertson, Acting Country Director of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). All are key partners in advancing Albania's preparedness for future challenges.

The General Director of the NACP, unveiled strategic and planning documents on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). Emphasizing the agency's priorities in strengthening Albania's preparedness for future challenges, the National Risk Assessment document and the National DRR Strategy, alongside its Action Plan, were hailed as fundamental tools for civil protection in Albania. Moreover, the ongoing preparations for the National Civil Emergency Plan, supported by the UNDP RESEAL project and funded by Sweden and Portugal, were highlighted as significant milestones.

The roundtable yielded invaluable recommendations and identified key actions that will serve as a roadmap for strengthening cooperation and coordination among all stakeholders. These findings will provide essential guidance to the NACP and its partnering donors as they continue their efforts in enhancing disaster preparedness in Albania and working towards building back better.

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About the Albanian National Agency of Civil Protection: The Albanian National Agency of Civil Protection (NACP) is the leading organization responsible for disaster risk management and civil protection in Albania. The agency works 
to safeguard the population and infrastructure through comprehensive preparedness, response, and recovery measures. By fostering partnerships and leveraging international support, the NACP strives to build a resilient Albania capable of effectively addressing and mitigating the impacts of various hazards and challenges.