January 2009
English Language Fellow Attends English Language Conference
From January 22-24, English Language Fellow Celeste Coleman and collaborating teacher Sofie Sula traveled from Elbasan to Pecs, Hungary, in order to participate in the ELF Program's Regional Mid-Year Event. The event was held in conjunction with the Biannual Conference of the Hungarian Society for the Study of English, and included presentations from teachers and academics from around the world. Presentations focused on the improvement of English language teaching and learning; Mrs. Sula and Ms. Coleman presented on the expansion and improvement of the university teaching practicum currently underway in Elbasan. The event proved an excellent opportunity for broadening perspectives and networking with other language teaching professionals from Southeast and Central Europe.
U.S. Speakers Bugajski and Fischer talk with Albanian students on U.S. Foreign Policy
On January 27, U.S. speakers Janusz Bugajski and Bernard Fischer were guest lecturers at European University of Tirana in a session on the Foreign Policy of the new U.S. Administration. They presented their views on U.S. Foreign Policy for the region and the relationship with Albania. The audience of seventy students responded actively, asking questions that ranged from U.S. Foreign Policy in South-East Europe and the Balkans in particular, views on the further expansion of NATO, and the future of U.S. – Russia relationships. Bugajski and Fischer were in Tirana to participate in the Conference on U.S. Foreign Policy organized by the Albanian Institute for International Studies and sponsored by the Embassy’s Public Affairs Section and the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
USAID Director Mahoney Signs Deal to Support Albanian Farmers
On January 30, USAID Mission Director Roberta Mahoney attended a signing ceremony at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Protection, and launched an SMS-based market information system, SITA, to support Albania’s farmers and agribusinesses. The system makes it possible for farmers and traders to receive daily price information as an SMS message for major commodities in six wholesale markets across Albania. One of the main constraints in the sector has been the lack of timely and reliable information about current trade opportunities and conditions for farmers and agribusinesses. Ms. Mahoney thanked the Ministry for its support and collaboration on this effort and noted “The foundation of any market-based system is good information and data about products being bought and sold. The more information we can share, the more dynamic and competitive farmers and the market will become.”
Admiral Fitzegerald: NATO Membership Is Only the Start
The Commander of the Naples Joint Forces Admiral Mark Fitzgerald visited Albania on January 29 and during a joint press availability with Albania's President Topi said, “We congratulate you on the extraordinary progress that Albania has made, but, as we said, joining NATO is not an end, but a beginning. And while there still much to be done, we will do it as partners.” Fitzgerald praised Albania's contributions to peace and stability in the Balkan region as well as its participation in peace keeping missions in Afghanistan, Iraq, Bosnia, and the Mediterranean.
Embassy Donation to Albanian SWAT Team
On January 29, Deputy Chief of Mission Steve Cristina made a donation of modern equipment to Albanian Police General Director Ahmet Premci, intended for the special police unit RENEA. Mr. Cristina urged the RENEA squad to make good use of the equipment in order to improve security in the country, as well as boost its crime and corruption fighting capacities. The equipment was worth $50,000 and was made possible by State Department’s Diplomatic Security Office at the U.S. Embassy. This office so far has enabled the training of over 500 Albanian police officers.
U.S. Embassy Renovates Public Hospital
The United States European Command, through the U.S. Embassy’s Office of Defense Cooperation, partly renovated the Hospital in Bulqize at a cost of $283,000.00. This renovation was made possible through ODC Humanitarian Assistance funds. Renovation of the hospital is part of an integrated approach to promote a sustainable health care system in Albania.
The renovation provided the hospital with a new roof, and interior and exterior walls and floors. Inside the building, the surgery room, patients’ rooms, maternity room, and laundry room, as well as new toilet facilities were completely renovated. The project will provide the Albanian people in the Bulqize area access to improved medical care.
The United States Office of Defense Cooperation, working closely with Albanian authorities, has been delivering humanitarian assistance to the Albanian people since 1996. Other projects have included providing supplies, rebuilding schools and medical facilities, developing water systems, and other non-military projects.
Political Officer Explains U.S. Political Process
As part of the Embassy Speaker’s Bureau Program, on
January 29 Political Officer Michael Gray spoke with over 150 students at the University of Aleksander Moisu in Durres about U.S. political processes and the recent inauguration of President Barack Obama. The event culminated with the promotion of President Barack Obama's book “The Audacity of Hope” in Albanian, made possible in part by a grant from the Public Affairs Section. The IIP publication “Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States of America” in Albanian, was distributed to the University students as well.
Ambassador Withers Commemorates Holocaust Remembrance Day
On Holocaust Remembrance Day, I would like to pay a tribute to the people of Albania for their selfless courage in resisting evil.
Let us recall: In the autumn of 1943, the German armies entered Albania. At that moment, if you were Jewish and living elsewhere in Europe, your chance of survival was less than five percent. Out of that magnificent Jewish community of millions, that contributed so much to the culture, to the philosophy, to the science, to the greater things that made up European culture and world civilization, less than 1 in 10 survived.
Unless you were Jewish and living in Albania.
In that case, history would show that your chance of survival was one hundred percent. The Albanian people stood up and said, no, we will not betray, we will not turn over, we will not collaborate. They lead in a pledge for liberty, hope, and justice.
Two years ago, Gwyneth Lewis, composed a different pledge for the national commemoration of Holocaust Remembrance Day. A pledge that came about due to the atrocities of the past, but with a message of courage and hope for the future. The pledge begins like this:
“The fight for justice starts and ends with me.
Truth is the sound of what I may say.
I can only be well when others are free
And right has a price I’m prepared to pay.”
This day and this pledge has a special meaning for the people of Albania. Ms. Lewis’ message has lost none of its importance, especially in light of the new challenges facing the country. However, as history has shown, the people of Albania have always taken on a challenge, and won.
Ambassador Withers Opens Conference on U.S. Foreign Policy
On January 26, Ambassador John L. Withers II was the keynote speaker in a Conference on U.S. Foreign Policy organized by the Albanian Institute for International Studies and sponsored by the Embassy’s Public Affairs Section and the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Prime Minister Sali Berisha, Foreign Minister Lulzim Basha and the Chairman of the Socialist Party Edi Rama also attended and spoke. The Ambassador highlighted that a new era of change has come with President Obama, “an era of change in the direction of our nation, in the direction of our economic policy, in the racial relations within U.S and outside, but it will be change for the better, or as President Obama put it, change we believe in.” Panel speakers expressed their gratitude for U.S support for democratic processes in Albania, and the strong belief that U.S. will continue to lead international efforts in promoting democracy and freedom. The audience included MPs, politicians, representatives of the national and international diplomatic community in the country and region, representatives of civil society, academics, and journalists. The event had live and extensive coverage by several prominent media outlets. (full remarks)
ARSO Practices Health Diplomacy
On January 24, Assistant Regional Security Officer Tony Pate was featured in the Ndryshe [“Different”] supplement of prestigious Shqip daily as “The American that explores Albania through Sports.” He shared his lifetime experience with sports, highlighting the benefits of exercising, both as a way of keeping in shape and socializing. Tony noted that he is very fond of the Albanian countryside and the country’s natural beauty. He was very encouraged by Albanian’s interest in health and fitness, but urged everyone living in Albania to go out, explore and be healthy!
Ambassador Withers Urges for Coordination in Anti-Trafficking Efforts
Ambassador John L. Withers II attended the presentation of the USAID-funded 2008 report on State of Efforts to Combat Trafficking of Persons on January 22. In his remarks, the Ambassador encouraged the government and civil society to continue sharing data and comparing notes in order for reports to gain greater legitimacy, as a tool in combating the trafficking in persons. He concluded by reiterating President Obama's call to the citizens of the world to strengthen efforts and commit to combining the strength of the people and their governments in order to overcome every obstacle in their path. This year’s report draws on the data and experience of the nationwide network of government and civil society organizations that work with the U.S. Embassy via USAID’s program.
Albania and Peace Corps Sign Memoranda of Understanding
The Secretary General of Ministry of Education Antonieta Luli along with Peace Corps Director Hill Denham, signed two new Memoranda of Understanding. The first Memorandum of Understanding was a renewal of their prior agreement from 2003 authorizing Peace Corps Volunteers work in secondary schools and universities as teachers and teacher trainers in English departments. The second Memoranda of Understanding was a new agreement between the Ministry of Education and Peace Corps’ Health Education Program. This new agreement grants Peace Corps’ Health Education Volunteers access to work in primary and secondary schools on health related projects. The Peace Corps program in Albania has over 73 Volunteers placed throughout the country working in Health Education and promotion, English Teaching and Community Development.
Donation to Promote Objective and Factual Investigations
Deputy Chief of Mission Steve Cristina signed over a donation of over $10,000 to the Ministry of Interior to fund the purchase of equipment that will enhance police integrity through investigative capability. The donation provides the Ministry, via its Internal Control Service, the capability of gathering and providing objective and factual information in investigations. The donation was made possible through the Mission's ICITAP program.
Barack Obama: 44th President of the United States
Barack Obama, elected the 44th President of the United States, has lived a truly American life, and has opened a new chapter in American politics. This publication tells the story of Obama’s life, describes how he captured the presidency, and portrays his vision for the future. It also introduces readers to the Obama family and to the new Vice President, Joseph Biden.
Ambassador Withers appears on "Opinion"
Ambassador John L. Withers II capped off the Embassy's Inauguration Day outreach activities with an exclusive interview for TV Klan's top-rated show "Opinion with Blendi Fevziu." The Ambassador explained the historical importance of this January 20th for the United States. He spoke about the priorities of the new administration and about future relations between the U.S. and Albania. The Ambassador ended by quoting President Obama "to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth – that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: yes, we can" The show can be seen in Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia and globally via satellite.
DCM Cristina Explains Inauguration Day to ALSAT Viewers
Deputy Chief of Mission Steve Cristina explained the symbolic importance behind President Obama's inauguration on an exclusive prime time interview for ALSAT TV's inaugural on January 20th. DCM Cristina spoke about the current relationship between the U.S. and Albania, future relations under the new administration and the significance of the day to him personally. The show can be seen globally via satellite.
PAO Provides Live Commentary of Inauguration on TV Klan
PAO B. Bix Aliu appeared live on national TV Klan to share with the Albanian audience the emotions of the presidential inauguration. Bix explained in fluent Albanian the Lincoln related symbolism of the inaugural events. When asked about the new administration's policy towards the Western Balkans and Albania in particular, Bix noted that the U.S. will continue to support and develop the historically strong bilateral relationship between the U.S. and Albania. He reiterated the importance of the upcoming general elections in Albania, as the country continues its path toward complete Euro-Atlantic integration.
PAO AND POL on TOP Radio
Political Section Chief Paul Poletes and Public Affairs Officer Bix Aliu appeared on the top rated "Adi Krasta Show" on TOP radio Albania - the number one hit radio station in the country. The two spoke about the importance of Inauguration Day, President Obama and his administration, touched upon the inner workings of an embassy and explained the importance of a healthy democracy, civic responsibility and participation and transparency in all aspects of the government. The radio show can be heard throughout the Balkans, Greece and Italy.
TV Koha on Inauguration Day
On January 20th, PAO Bix Aliu appeared on TV Koha's late night information show "Koha nuk Pret, with Nolian Loli" to discuss the historic implications of President Obama's Inauguration and to explain U.S. foreign policy towards the Balkans under the new administration. Bix highlighted the very close relationship between Albania and America, noting that the upcoming elections in the country will be a true test for a healthy democracy. Bix also explained the history behind Inauguration Day and described the events that take place.
PAO Visits National Museum
PAO Bix Aliu and the Cultural Assistant Mirela Cupi visited the Albanian National Museum on January 14 in order to discuss increased collaboration between the Embassy and the institution, considered the cradle of Albanian culture and history. Bix met with the museum director, Kasem Bicoku, and discussed possible means of collaboration, in order to further develop bilateral cooperation and multicultural understanding between the two countries.
Executive Assistant Promotes Culinary Diplomacy
Resident Embassy Tirana Top Chef, Brenda James, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Mission, continued her Culinary Diplomacy by appearing on top-rated Vizion Plus Television’s Morning Show “Konak” on January 14th. Brenda used the opportunity to prepare and present a typical American meal and spoke about shared values between Albanians and Americans. Brenda explained the importance that Americans place on family and talked about her southern upbringing while touching upon the important role US citizens play in community activism.
PAO Bix Aliu Discusses Style
Public Affairs Officer B. Bix Aliu was featured in monthly Jeta magazine as one of the best dressed professionals in Tirana. Bix shared with the readers of the prestigious magazine details of how he chooses business attire. He concluded by offering advice to those men starting out a career in an official or business setting and explained the importance of professionalism in attire decisions.
U.S. Embassy Staff Participates in Blood Donation Initiative
A shortage of blood products has been especially critical during the first few weeks of the new year, in Albania. Volunteers at Embassy Tirana, stepped up to help with a blood drive on January 13. The blood donation event was organized by the U.S. Embassy Medical Office with the assistance of Albanian Red Cross and the National Blood Bank. Blood is always in high demand in the Mediterranean because of the high incidence of Thalassemia. Individuals with this congenital defect in hemoglobin synthesis can require transfusions as often as every three weeks. Motor vehicle accidents during the holiday also contribute to the high demand for blood at this time of year. The U.S. Embassy is very proud to participate in this initiative.
Albania's Agro-Business Newspaper Features US Assistance to Reduce Risk of Avian Influenza
December and January are the busiest time of year for poultry farmers in Albania, with thousands of turkeys sold in local markets for traditional holiday dinners. In December, the U.S. Mission in Tirana, through USAID, conducted several demonstration exercises to support better bio-safety measures in poultry farms. Several articles about this project were featured in national newspapers, including the frontpage of the bi-weekly, "Agrobiznesi." With the support of USAID’s avian influenza program, and in cooperation with UNICEF and Albanian Council of Agribusiness (KASH), 20 model family farms have so far been established that meet bio-safety standards and protect birds and families from disease. More information, including a photo gallery, can be found on USAID Albania's website: http://albania.usaid.gov
U.S. Consul Supports English Learning
On January 4, Consul Abigail Aronson and her husband Paul Cohn recorded the dialogue of "Method of Learning English as a Second Language," an educational book series that will be used in Albania as a tool to learn English as a second language. A product of the “Library Albania” this edition will be added to the English Teaching materials used mainly by teachers of English for children of 13 – 14 years of age and directly supports the Mission's new focus on supporting English learning in the country.
Ambassador
Embassy Events
September_2009
