President Begaj and the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Praise the Role of AmCham Albania
The 25th anniversary of the American Chamber of Commerce marked a milestone event with a Gala Evening honoring its founders, its extraordinary journey, and the organization’s influential role in economic developments between the two countries.
The Chamber was honored at this celebration by the President of the Republic, H.E. Bajram Begaj, and the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, Ms. Nancy VanHorn, who in their remarks emphasized AmCham’s contribution to regulatory processes in support of the business community and its crucial role as a bridge between American and Albanian businesses.
“AmCham has become one of the most trusted and respected voices in the country and remains a key factor in strengthening the voice of the business community,” stated Ms. VanHorn, highlighting concrete examples of legal and regulatory improvements that resulted from the organization’s work and expertise.
President Bajram Begaj echoed this appreciation, noting that “AmCham provides invaluable contributions and is a strong voice for business, serving as the best intermediary between American and Albanian enterprises.”
Everything began with a bold idea that united 44 business leaders under the initiative of the U.S. Embassy’s Economic Attaché, Mr. Charles Levesque, to introduce an extraordinary brand to Albania, the American Chamber of Commerce, which today, 25 years later, is a vibrant community of 276 companies.
“The American Chamber had a clear objective: to build a sustainable bridge of cooperation between Albania and the United States, and to create a climate of trust and transparency by establishing the American concept of doing business,” said AmCham Executive Director Neritan Mullaj in his address.
AmCham President Grant Van Cleve emphasized that the winds of political change and economic challenges are steering the world toward better times, with the United States playing a leading role. “The American Chamber has a significant role in shaping the development of the Albania–U.S. relationship, because just as our two national anthems say‘in the land of the free and the home of the brave,’ we champion the innovative spirit of entrepreneurs and guide their path,” stated Van Cleve.
Both Chamber leaders highlighted the organization’s forward-looking vision, focused on guiding a new elite generation through technological and digital transformations reshaping business. As part of this vision, the Executive Director announced the launch of the annual “Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year” award, to be granted to the top innovator each year.
While the future vision is clear, the reflective moment of the 25th anniversary served to honor the pioneering companies that stood alongside the organization from the beginning and made history with it. AmCham awarded 23 loyal member companies with the “25-Year AmCham Member” recognition.
The Chamber also commemorated members and leaders who are no longer with us but are remembered for their impactful contributions. Executive Director Neritan Mullaj honored the memory of U.S. Ambassador Joseph Limprecht, AmCham President Jeffrey Griffing, and especially entrepreneur Dritan Mezini.
“The American Chamber will always remember with respect this innovative figure who led the rapid technological changes of his era and encouraged businesses to embrace them. Personally, I feel deeply obliged to honor this friend and colleague with whom I shared ideas and visions some of which we turned into reality,” said Mr. Mullaj.
