National Round Table: The future of Qarks in Albania – Between the Decentralisation and Regional Development

November 10th 2011 – Hotel Rogner Europa Park

IDM and CoPlan through this round table, brought into the focus the debate concerning the role of “Qarks” and its importance in the economic and social development in the regional level, concentrating in the perspectives for European integration and the necessity for a efficient policy in the local and regional governance.

IDM and Co-Plan provided the audience with the main findings of the Policy Document: “Perspective and Strengthening of Qarks in Albania Between Decentralization and Regional Development” prepared by IDM as well as the study  “Regional Development in Albania – the Quest for Development)”, prepared by Co-Plan experts. Both documents are based on the path of decentralisation reforms until today and the policies of regional development in EU and Albania.

The Round Table, was attended by the Prime Minister Office, local and regional government representatives, representatives from international bodies, civil society and media. During the event discussions and opinions were conducted by Prime Minister Adviser Mr. Ylli Asllani, Mrs. Oriana Arapi from the Council of Ministers, local organizations representatives Mr. Fatos Hodaj and Mr. Agron Haxhimali, Mrs Jolanda Mema from the MInistry of Finances, Mrs Valbona Karakaçi representative of DLPD-Swis Cooperation, Mr Blendi Bushati.