Invited as guests to speak on this draft law were Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment Almira Xhembulla and General Director of the Water Waste Management Agency Gerta Lubonja.

Deputy Minister Xhembulla stated that this draft law was compiled up as part of the legal package in framework of approximation of Albanian legislation in the field of water resources management with the relevant acquis of the European Union, through support of the EU project, “For integrated water management in Albania”, financed by the EU and ADA.

One of the components of this project is, “Improving the legal framework in the field of water resources management”.

Rapporteur of the case Lavdrim Krashi said that the draft law that is being discussed today aims to protect water resources through their conservation, development and rational use, as something necessary for the life and socio-economic development of the country.

“The object of the draft law is to define the legal and institutional framework for the administration of water resources”, said Krashi.

Following discussions, comments and suggestions, the committee members approved this draft law in principle, article by article and in its entirety, along with the changes agreed upon during the meeting./r.e/p.s./

In her presentation, co-negotiator Manjani expressed the determination and commitment of the Albanian government to fulfill all obligations for the full integration of the country in the European Union, as an important strategic objective, focusing specifically on employment policies.

Albania continued to address the EC’s recommendations on employment and social policies, especially by strengthening the quality and effectiveness of labor market institutions and the provision of employment services.

More specifically, the Acquis in this area aims to increase employment, improve working and living conditions, promote dialogue with social partners, develop human resources in order to ensure sustainable employment, create social protection mechanisms combating poverty and social exclusion and providing equal opportunities.

The Albanian delegation was represented by a significant number of technical structures of the Ministry of Finance and Economy and dependent institutions such as the National Employment and Skills Agency, the State Inspectorate of Labor and Social Services, the Institute of Social Insurance./p.s./