As protests against the $4 billion investment in Zvërnec enter their 16th day, the US Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires in Tirana, Nancy VanHorn, delivered a clear message about the investment climate in Albania.
During the presentation of the mechanism for reviewing foreign investments, VanHorn emphasized that investments that promote economic development should be welcomed, but without compromising national security and strategic sectors. She underlined that American investors are closely following developments in Albania and that confidence in clear rules, consistent law enforcement and fair competition remains essential for attracting long-term capital.
“When President Trump announced America’s investment policy last year, he emphasized a simple principle: welcome investments that strengthen economic growth while ensuring that critical infrastructure and strategic sectors remain secure. Albania’s approach to investment screening is built on the same principle. And that alignment matters. Of course, passing a law is the beginning, not the end. Implementation is where these efforts succeed or fail, and the United States will continue to support Albania throughout this process.
Investors are paying attention, including American ones. American companies are here, in energy, construction, and technology – and many more are looking to come. But investors need confidence that the rules are clear, that the playing field is level, and that strategic sectors are protected from actors who do not play by the same rules as us. The United States will continue to support Albania through this process. We will continue to work with Minister Ibrahimaj and other ministries and institutions that will bring this framework to life. When rules are predictable and implementation is consistent, everyone benefits, and this is the environment that attracts the kind of long-term, quality investment that Albania deserves,” she said.
Her statement comes at a time when the debate over the Zvërnec project continues to dominate public opinion, while a day earlier Prime Minister Edi Rama argued that opposition to the investment is damaging the country’s image and business climate.