The Minister of State for Local Government, Mr. Ervin Demo, participated in the 3rd National Symposium on Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC), organized by UNICEF, the World Bank, and the French Development Agency (AFD). During the symposium, representatives of central and local government institutions, international organizations, civil society, the private sector, and field experts discussed the development of a more inclusive, high-quality, and sustainable system for children across all municipalities of Albania. In his remarks, Minister Demo emphasized the importance of the role of local government in providing services for children and families, highlighting that the administrative and territorial reform creates opportunities to strengthen interinstitutional coordination, clarify responsibilities among institutions, and further empower municipalities. Participants exchanged views on sustainable financing, accountability, and the mechanisms needed to ensure quality early childhood services. Minister Demo expressed appreciation for the cooperation with UNICEF, the World Bank, AFD, and other partners, emphasizing that investing in early childhood means investing in human capital, community development, and the future of the country .