Japan has supported 80 projects across Albania through grants under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects programme, Ambassador Kikuko Kato told the Albanian Telegraphic Agency. The projects address basic needs and directly support local communities, including through public hospitals, schools, local authorities and non-governmental organisations.

Kato said Japan focuses its development assistance on two main areas: environmental protection and equitable growth. The support covers environmental, water and waste management, as well as disaster risk reduction. Japan also seeks to reduce differences in access to economic and social services between urban and rural areas.

Meanwhile, Kato highlighted technical cooperation as another key part of Japan’s support. Japan combines financial assistance with the transfer of knowledge, skills and practical expertise through the Japan International Cooperation Agency. It also provides development loans and grants.

Kato said Japan and Albania have maintained relations since 1922. She also highlighted regional cooperation through the Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative, launched by former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2018. The initiative supports socio-economic reforms, regional cooperation and efforts to address shared challenges such as forest fires and water shortages.

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