Prime Minister Edi Rama described the approval of Albania’s territorial reform as another step towards modernisation. He made the remarks after the Assembly of Albania approved the bill on the administrative and territorial division of local government units.

Rama said the vote followed intense domestic debate and external speculation. He also said it had demonstrated the Socialist Party’s political strength. Meanwhile, the new territorial map will reduce the number of municipalities from 61 to 46. The 12 existing regions will remain unchanged.

The Assembly approved the reform with 85 votes in favour after a marathon session. The plan merges 15 municipalities into larger local government units. The government aims to improve territorial administration, financial management and public services for citizens.

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