TIRANA/DURRËS – Within the framework of the EU-funded support to the Transport Community for its observing participants, a three-day study visit to Albania on 27–29 January 2026 brought together representatives from the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine to exchange best practices on maritime transport governance, EU acquis alignment, and port infrastructure development.
The study visit, organised by the Permanent Secretariat of the Transport Community, provided a structured platform for peer learning and institutional exchange with Albania’s competent maritime authorities. It strengthened administrative capacities and supported ongoing reforms in line with EU standards and Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) requirements.
The programme opened in Tirana with meetings at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, where participants engaged with senior officials and Transport Community representatives on Albania’s progress under EU Chapters 14 (Transport Policy) and 21 (Trans-European Networks). Discussions focused on maritime policy priorities, institutional responsibilities, and future development plans. The first day concluded with a technical visit to MBM Port in Porto Romano, offering insights into private port operations and logistics development.
The second day in Durrës focused on maritime safety, security, and seafarer training, hosted by the General Maritime Directorate. Sessions covered the implementation of the STCW Convention, port state and flag state control, maritime security compliance, and capacity-building initiatives. Representatives from Moldova and Ukraine also presented the current status of their maritime safety and training systems, fostering mutual learning and experience sharing.
On the final day, discussions at the Durrës Port Authority centred on port infrastructure development, operational modernisation, and digitalisation. Presentations highlighted ongoing upgrades, the development of the new multimodal port in Porto Romano, and security systems aligned with EU and international standards. The programme concluded with an on-site visit to the Port of Durrës, including the container terminal and ferry facilities, providing participants with first-hand insight into operational practices.
The study visit was financed by the European Union under the grant NDICI-GEO-NEAR/2023/452688 to the Permanent Secretariat of the Transport Community, supporting preparatory activities for the progressive involvement of Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine in the activities of the Transport Community.
