Tirana – Roberto Alesse, Director of the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM), met with Albania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Belinda Balluku, as part of an official visit to Tirana. The meeting was also attended by Genthi Gazheli, Director of Albanian Customs. Alesse reaffirmed Italy’s full support for the Western Balkan countries’ path toward EU membership, underlining the importance of joint initiatives in digital innovation and AI integration in customs operations. During the bilateral talks, Alesse and Balluku discussed the digitalization of customs procedures, highlighting how both Italy and Albania are already adopting cutting-edge technologies to make inspections faster and more efficient. The collaboration between the two nations is ongoing and focused on sharing best practices, particularly in the fight against illegal trade and in strengthening European border security. “In a world marked by fast-paced economic and geopolitical changes, cross-border cooperation is crucial,” Alesse said. “It’s the cornerstone of secure and seamless commercial exchange.” Later in the visit, Alesse met with Agron Llugaliu, Director General of Kosovo Customs, to further promote cooperation between the agencies. In the coming weeks, ADM will organize the steering committee for the Bosnia and Herzegovina twinning project, “Strengthening Capacities of the Indirect Taxation Authority of BiH.” Additionally, in early July, Alesse will travel to Belgrade with General Commander of Italy’s Guardia di Finanza, Andrea De Gennaro, to formalize new bilateral agreements on customs control, data exchange, and the fight against illicit trafficking.