"The German Foundation did not flee from the government", Balla: Albania-Germany relations, at the best level

2025-12-04 12:58:00, Politikë CNA

"The German Foundation did not flee from the government", Balla:

The Chairman of the Socialist Party Parliamentary Group, Taulant Balla, stated in the Assembly that the termination of cooperation by the German foundation was not due to the Albanian government. According to him, this decision by "Hanns-Seidel" is also related to the reduction of funds that the German federal government provides to the foundation.

He further stated that Albania's relations with Germany are at the best level they have ever been. Balla said that Germany remains Albania's main partner within the EU countries, but is the first country in terms of direct financing.

"On behalf of the SP group, I thank the German "Hanns-Seidel" foundation. Since the first days of political pluralism in Albania, this foundation has assisted and helped in strengthening democratic institutions in the country and the activity of political parties, justice institutions, state police or central government. The foundation's decision-making is also related to a reduction in the funds that the German federal government gives it. It has nothing to do with the fact that the foundation is leaving because Albania has expelled it. Each of us is responsible for what comes out of our mouths. I understand any colleague in the opposition who finds everything to criticize the government. But to say that the foundation left because they did not like the government, what about the "Konrad Adenauer" foundation that cooperates with you. Or it is bored with you because it is spending money on you and you are still not getting anything done. Do you think that after 2030 there will come a moment when these foundations will no longer have an office in Tirana? The gentleman who made a stream psychic here, which I also respect for the age reasons, I believe you asked for an apology. Not to forget the level of the best historical relations that Albania has with Germany. German chancellors have officially visited Albania after 2013, starting with Merkel's historic visit and continuing with Scholz's. Germany remains our main partner within the EU countries, but is the first in terms of direct financing , "said Balla. /CNA