The French Ambassador, Mr. Bernard Fitoussi, visited Shkodra University "Luigj Gurakuqi"

The French Ambassador, Mr. Bernard Fitoussi, visited Shkodra city on 5- 6 March 2015. In the framework of this visit he also visited the University of Shkodra "Luigj Gurakuqi" and had an open lecture with students of this University.
The Rector of Shkodra University "Luigj Gurakuqi", Prof. dr. Artan Haxhi, welcomed Ambassador Fitoussi in his office. In his speech, the Rector made a presentation and a brief historical journey of Shkodra University in the years. He introduced the current structure and spoke about the objectives and priorities of this university in the future. Among other things, Mr. Haxhi thanked the Embassy of France, which has supported the University of Shkodra by providing French lecturers at the Department of Roman studies at this University.
During the meeting, the Ambassador said that there would be no future for young Albanians, if they did not get good qualification from the university. He said: "University is not simply a matter of tradition but it is also a matter of hope for the future".
The opened lecture titled: "The Place of Albania in Europe", was held in the conference room at the Rectorate of Shkodra University. Mr. Bernard Fitoussi stated in his introduction: "In 1992 Albania decided to apply the liberal trade market, economy and liberal democracy. After more than 20 years of reforms and economic progress, it is legitimate to analyse the future of Albania and its place within the European political and economic space. I want to make a substantial preliminary remark. My goal is not to give one or several lessons or to open a political discussion that is not convenient. It is important that the criticism and debate on different topics which are in the interest of Albania should be in a university setting"
During the lecture, the ambassador addressed the following issues and sub-issues:
I. Albania will need to respect European rules in order to fully occupy its place among European economies.
1) The requirements of an open economy;
2) Public finance. Respect the Maastricht criteria.
II. There are many opportunities for Albania which sometimes are complementary to the economic development.
1) Albania's economic exchanges with member states of the EU;
2) Search for a new model of growth.
III. Albania's European path passes through national reforms and cooperation between the countries of the region.
1) Regional Integration;
2) The five key priorities of the EU;
3) The process of reform.
In conclusion the French Ambassador, Mr. Bernard Fitoussi, said: "Only a hundred years ago, Europe was in war just from a gun shot in the Balkans, in Sarajevo. To complete the unification of the continent it is very important to integrate the Balkans into Europe. Of course, Albania will benefit from this. But conversely Europe will also largely benefit from the integration of Albania. The successful model of coexistence of religions observed in Albanian society can be a source of inspiration for our countries, contributing to the mitigation of internal tensions. Finally, your country is engaged in a difficult and long path. It takes courage and dedication, even by the Albanian youth. France will be with you on this path of courage. "
At the end of the event the students asked questions that dealt with issues of integration.