Grant Van Cleve, President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, spoke today about the strategic significance of Porto Romano.

He addressed the topic during a panel at the Corridor VIII ministerial held in Tirana.

Van Cleve emphasized the port’s role in regional connectivity, economic growth, and the overall potential of Corridor VIII.

“Europe needs strategic defense projects. The worst approach is to focus only on individual peace. We must look at the bigger perspective,” he said.

Discussing Porto Romano, Van Cleve noted its strategic location for trade.

“The geographic distance from Porto Romano to other countries is shorter than going through Thessaloniki or Athens. Worse, Athens is influenced by the Chinese. So this is both a geopolitical and a geographic reason when you look at the map,” he explained.

He added:“Let’s connect together, fill the gaps that exist, and make this strategic route through the Balkans possible. Certain areas in Eastern and Southern Europe are very important and must be supported. The U.S. will be a strong partner in this process.”