The Minister of State for Local Government, Ervin Demo, welcomed the Ambassador of Austria to Albania, Monika Zach, together with a delegation composed of 14 mayors and around 60 senior representatives of Austrian local government institutions, led by the President of the Austrian Association of Municipalities, Johannes Pressl. During the meeting, a friendly and constructive discussion was held on the key role of local government in the European integration process, the strengthening of municipalities’ administrative capacities, and the importance of cooperation between Albanian and Austrian local government units. The discussions also focused on the exchange of experiences and best practices in the field of local governance, inter-municipal cooperation, and the involvement of municipalities in European processes. Austria’s experience was considered an important model for Albania in the context of advancing reforms and preparations towards European Union membership. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthening cooperation between Albanian and Austrian local government institutions, with the aim of enhancing local capacities and improving services for citizens .