In her remarks during this Ministerial, Minister Koçiu said that nuclear technology has growing potential that can help us find common, affordable, and feasible solutions in many areas, such as food security and protection, climate change, clean energy, water security, and health.

“In healthcare, nuclear applications are at the core of health policies, advancing diagnostic imaging, cancer treatment, and disease prevention in ways that can save many lives. In Albania, with continuous support from the IAEA, we are strengthening nuclear medicine services and improving cancer treatment outcomes in line with the National Cancer Action Plan 2022–2030. These efforts have significantly improved both the quality and accessibility of patients in Albania to cancer treatment,” she emphasized.

The Minister emphasized that “thanks to the support from the IAEA, we now have a well-distributed range of diagnostic imaging equipment, including X-rays, CT scanners, and magnetic resonance imaging. This infrastructure provides a level of care that, on average, is comparable to many countries in Europe.”

Additionally, Koçiu stated that Albania is a beneficiary of over 60 technical cooperation projects with the IAEA.

“Our partnership is developing within the framework of the EU integration process. Just last month, we officially opened accession negotiations. I believe that this historic moment reflects not only our aspirations for integration but also our commitment to fulfilling our obligations towards the Sustainable Development Goals. In this context, our partnership is essential to achieving our national aspiration of becoming a worthy member of the European Union, building our choices on technology, multilateral agreements, and social responsibility,” said the Minister of Health and Social Protection.

Koçiu emphasized Albania’s readiness to collaborate with all partners and United Nations agencies that share the same goals.

“Albania has been, is, and will continue to be a devoted member of the international community, ready to strengthen international cooperation in all areas, including healthcare, science, and nuclear energy,” concluded the Minister of Health and Social Protection, Albana Koçiu.

/sm/