The Statutory Session of the 20th NALAS General Assembly was opened by NALAS President, Mayor Dusan Raicevic, Ms. Jelena Drenjanin, Chair of Governance Committee, Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe and Mr. Josko Klisovic, President of City Assembly of Zagreb, representing the European Committee of the Regions, who highlighted that this is an important moment for the Network, as we reflect on today’s achievements and move forward with key decisions that will shape our shared future.

Mr. Kelmend Zajazi, NALAS Executive Director presented Network’s achievements in 2024, and both activity and financial reports.

“Throughout the year, NALAS impacted an impressive number of over 2,800 mayors, experts and practitioners through more than 100 capacity development measures. NALAS’ projects, implemented in collaboration with the member LGAs and pilot municipalities improved lives of over 60,000 citizens of the Region”.

The General Assembly delegates adopted the activity and financial reports, showing appreciation for NALAS’ work. Mayor Emil Draghici, NALAS Vice-President, highlighted that it is impressive to witness NALAS’ progress through the years. The General Assembly also adopted the 2025 workplan and budget.

Based on the rotation Presidency system, Mr. Dubravko Bilic, Mayor of Ludbreg, Croatia, became the new President of NALAS, who, supported by three Vice-Presidents, mayors Emil Draghici, Agim Aliu and Irfan Cengic will govern the Network in the upcoming year.

NALAS welcomed a new full member, the National Association of Municipalities of Albania.

At this General Assembly, appraisals for NALAS’ work came from Ms. Marta Kos, Commissioner for Enlargement, Ms. Jelena Drenjanin, Chair of Governance Committee, Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, Mr. Josko Klisovic, European Committee of the Regions, President of City Assembly of Zagreb, Mr. Fabrizio Rossi, Director of CEMR and H.E. Ruth Huber, Swiss Ambassador in Albania.

The Swiss Ambassador delivered a keynote video message focusing on the role of local governments in evidence-based policy making for social inclusion and advancing the EU integration process.

H.E. Ms Huber reaffirmed Switzerland’s support for strong local governance in the Western Balkans. She highlighted that Local governments and their associations are crucial for improving social services and delivering on the promise to Leave No One Behind—a principle that lies at the heart of sustainable development.

In her address Ms Huber further congratulated the National Association of Municipalities of Albania (NAMA) on officially becoming a full member of NALAS emphasizing that this milestone marks an important step for Albanian municipalities to collaborate, share solutions, and raise a unified voice at national and the regional level.

Mr. Josko Klisovic, European Committee of the Regions, President of City Assembly of Zagreb, highlighted the focus on EU enlargement and the vital role of local governments in fostering policy dialogue. The establishment of NAMA as an inclusive association marks a pivotal step in supporting Albanian local governments in their preparation for EU accession. The European Committee of the Regions looks forward to working closely with NAMA within the framework of the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) with Albania.”

Mr. Fabrizio Rossi, Secretary General of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR), underscored the significance of NAMA joining NALAS, highlighting it as a vital step toward greater regional cooperation. He reaffirmed that NALAS and CEMR will continue to work in close partnership on the EU integration process, united in their commitment to shaping a better future founded on the strength of cities and municipalities.

We encourage NAMA to use this platform to further empower local governance and advocate for the needs of all communities across Albania.