Others on us

on: 19 Sep 2016

Minister of Finance of the Republic of Albania

Shkëlqim Cani

Relationship and cooperation with Kosovo, part of the Albanian nation, has been a long-standing dream. Due to conditioned circumstances by political regimes in Albania, Kosovo, and because of the events that made â€‹â€‹history in the late 20th century for the Albanian nation, the possibility of cooperation was severely restricted and the dream remained a dream...

Nonetheless not infinite. The events that followed the war of 1999 opened a brand new site for Kosovo, which was finalized with the Declaration of Independence on 17 February 2008. It was a coronation, where we somehow felt like contributors. That's because in 2007 I began cooperation with Rinvest.

Cooperation with Riinvest started with fire and desire of knowing the other part of Albanians, so near and so far. With greatest pleasure, I accepted the invitation for cooperation and also with the excitement of doing a new thing. Responsibility of contribution, participation in academic life in Kosovo and the education of the new post-war generation were covered by special sensation. Because I wasn’t very aware of the situation, I remember that there were times that a numerous questions would invade me. Starting from the language, the vocabulary to be used, the rate of speaking ... and so on. Of course these may sound childish now but today, eight years later; these questions have seen an unprecedented development. As in many other areas, these assumptions no longer exist. Nevertheless, for me they remain beautiful, as they are from the start.

Cooperation with Rinvest included teaching in master programs and research studies, where Riinvest definitely has a merit as a leader institution in Kosovo, with studies that include not only Kosovo, but also the region.

I was proud that together with Riinvest faculty and staff, we have worked closely to create the first specialized programs at Master level courses in the field of modern banks, banking development strategy, international finance, banking risk management and economy development. With the aim of attracting a significant number of students who come not only from the school banks, as the normal process of the study, but also with direct experience in the field of finance and banking, people wish to advance their knowledge, to increase competitiveness in the market and to enhance their skills and knowledge. An admirable interest from those seeking knowledge, seeking to capture the lost time, an unprecedented willingness of those who did not stop their studies even in difficult conditions before the war. We were with them not only in teacher - student relationship, but also as friends, as brothers. Their curiosity to know more about Albania, just like mine to know more about Kosovo, was a separate school. And for this, I have to thank Riinvest for the given opportunity to have more friends of friends on this side of the border.

The relationship with students was one side. But as special and exciting was the relationship with the academic staff at Riinvest. A dedicated staff to ensure first element in attracting students -academic quality. Developed and revised programs each year were the basis of the teaching success. The needs of the Kosovo’s new economy were the foundations of scientific research. In this particular field many students were included through the topics of the course or degree work. While as an academic staff I was engaged in many activities of national and international character. I was impressed by their abilities, especially in analytical work, advanced scientific research methods, high level of knowledge in statistics and IT, connections with many public and private institutions in Kosovo and beyond. Along the routes of development, we have often discussed about macroeconomics, finance and banks. These are areas that I love very much and do not hesitate to share my experience and knowledge with anyone. Open to colleagues who brought experience and original perspectives, especially regarding the features representing Kosovo's economy. A dialogue and cooperation that even now that I am a Minister of Finance, I have not underestimated and whenever I find time, I try to be present. This is because in one way or another, whether I want or not, I am part of this honorable institution. For me, Riinvest is a strong connection point with Kosovo. Therefore I appreciate it; I honor it and continue to do so. Thank you for this irreplaceable experience Riinvest!

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