David Wisner of the USA: Chambers of business should be independent

2024-06-20 07:39:00, Ekonomi CNA

David Wisner of the USA: Chambers of business should be independent

David Wisner, Chargé d'Affaires of the American Embassy in Albania

The Chargé d'Affaires of the American Embassy in Albania, Mr. David Wisner, during a podcast for "Monitor", where the head of the American Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Grant Van Cleve gave the message that chambers should be independent.

"We firmly believe that the Chamber is a key voice for the private sector.

And as much as Chambers can be free to do the kind of work they do, support for businesses, for the real growth of the private, organic and independent sector is absolutely critical.

That is clearly the role that the American Chamber plays, but I would argue that it is broader than that. I know that this includes the other Chambers that are present here.

We Americans really believe in the power of the free market and as much freedom as we can have that these organizations can have, I think that's really important.

We look forward to more American companies joining the Chamber over the coming years, for the Chamber to be a voice for responsible private sector growth in this country, and an organization that can undoubtedly help amplify the message of American values ??or interests in the region, in Albania in particular", said Mr. Wisner.

The Chargé d'Affaires of the American Embassy in Albania also emphasized the creation of an equal environment for businesses.

"We need stability, predictability, fight against corruption, commitment and dedication to it. Giving American businesses a fair chance. This is what they want.

There is no need for anything special for us. But if we know we can compete, we will compete. I think it is very important to understand that the resolution of some land ownership issues will be critically important.

And, of course, all the efforts that the government is making to keep young Albanians here will be absolutely essential, because in a knowledge economy, such as Europe, and it is its future, having motivated young people, extraordinary, it will be absolutely essential," he said.

The comments of Mr. Wisner comes as many business chambers and associations, which mainly represent foreign investors in Albania, are strongly opposing the draft law "For the National Chamber of Commerce", which provides for the mandatory membership of all businesses in a National Chamber of Commerce.

Recently, in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Edi Rama, 17 chambers and business associations, most of which represent foreign investors, have expressed concern that the draft law has been published for public consultation, without considering their previous comments.

For the first time, business chambers and associations have addressed their concerns to international institutions and foreign embassies, such as the Delegation of the European Union to Albania, the American and Italian embassies of the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Turkey and Greece. / Monitor magazine