The Institute of Statistics (INSTAT) organized on 26 May 2026, the annual meeting of the project “Albanian Statistics Aligned with National Legislation and EU Requirements”, which is implemented in the framework of strengthening statistical capacities and aligning with European Union standards.

The purpose of the meeting was to present and approve the Inception Report, review the progress achieved so far, discuss the activities planned for the upcoming implementation period, and agree on the next steps for the effective continuation of the project.

Representatives from the Embassy of Sweden, Statistics Sweden (SCB), the University of Tirana, as well as representatives from INSTAT participated in the meeting.

The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Lantona Sado, Director General of INSTAT, Mr. Thomas Bjurenvall, Project Manager from Statistics Sweden, and Ms. Ermelinda Xhaja, Programme Officer at the Embassy of Sweden in Albania.

During the meeting, the following key topics were discussed:

• Review of the Inception Report, plans and achievements 2026;
• Budget implementation and financial overview;
• Presentation of the updated risk matrix;
• Approval of the Inception Report.

This meeting represents an important step towards strengthening institutional cooperation and supporting the process of aligning Albanian statistics with European Union standards.