U.S. Embassy Statement (November 20, 2009)
The United States Embassy fully supports the right to freedom of expression and assembly for all people. Such expression should be peaceful and not infringe on the rights of others. We call upon all Albanians, both those participating in protests and those responsible for maintaining order, to exercise their rights and responsibilities calmly and respectfully.
American Corner Hosts Regional English Teachers Conference
On November 12, Ambassador John Withers opened the First Regional English Teachers Conference at the American Corner in the northern town of Kukes via Skype. Because of its remote location, American Corner Kukes has become a trend setter and regional hub in its use of online resources and programming. The conference took place with support from the U.S. Embassy and the Municipality of Kukes and brought together over 40 teachers of English as a Second Language. Information Resources Officer Catherine Marsicek and English Language Fellow Elizabeth Hepford also participated.
Local TV and Radio Coverage Highlights American Corner-Kukes Activity
The First Regional English Teachers Conference held at the American Corner was the leading story on Kukës TV's evening news edition on November 12. The coverage focused on the high participation level (40 teachers) and the need for such activities in the remote northern region. The broadcaster included interviews with Information Resources Officer Cathy Marsicek and English Language Fellow Elisabeth Hepford, both speakers at the conference. Both speakers were also interviewed live on Radio Kukës’ Daily Show, where they noted the dedication of the conference participants and their appreciation of Kukes' hospitality.
The Importance of Defending Freedom of Expression
On November 16, Ambassador John Withers was the keynote speaker at a ceremony marking the 65th anniversary of the assassination of 39 intellectuals by the communists in 1944. Noting that they were murdered for publicly differing from the communist regime, Ambassador Withers said, “We can best honor these people by keeping alive the principles for which they gave their lives… We can confer upon their ideals immortality through our rededication to what they believed in …” The audience included OSCE Ambassador Bosch, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the government, MPs, Mayor Edi Rama, former President Moisiu, academics, and family members of the intellectuals. The ceremony, organized by the Association of Formerly Persecuted People of Albania, received extensive media coverage.
Outstanding Academic Performance by 11 Week Incumbent Basic Course – Patrol Generalist
On 12 November 2009 ICITAP Program Manager Gary Bullard and Police Academy Director Nazmi Kotarja awarded ICITAP ribbons to Group # 9 & #11 at the Durres Training Facility for Outstanding Academic Performance during the first two quizzes and First Test during their Basic Training. Both groups received an overall average on the exams of 87.0% to receive the ribbons and demonstrate the best academic performance of the 13 Basic Course groups who make up the approximately 400 incumbent police officers attending the Basic Course.
University of Tirana students Videoconference with Students at Georgia Southern University
ICITAP Instructor Skills Certificate Ceremony
U.S Embassy Tirana Announces the New Speaker's Bureau Program
Our Information Resource Center is Open to the Public 
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