New York City Mayor Eric Adams praised Albania’s progress in the past 25 years during an official visit to Tirana on Tuesday, calling it a success story of urban and technological development.
At a joint press conference with Prime Minister Edi Rama, Adams said he was impressed by the transformation of Tirana and the country as a whole, highlighting improvements in public lighting, advances in technology, and the embrace of innovation.
“Twenty-five years ago, this city had fewer than 100 streetlights. Today, you can see a flourishing community moving in the right direction — from the lack of light to now having a minister for artificial intelligence, recognizing the role AI will play in the country’s future,” Adams said.
He added that he wanted to learn more about technology and how Prime Minister Rama had overseen the country’s “revolution” in that field. Adams also expressed interest in strengthening ties in tourism and exploring the possibility of a direct flight between New York City and Tirana.
Rama said Adams had shown strong interest in meeting Albania’s newly appointed Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Diella, and that work was under way to accelerate plans for a direct air route between the two cities.
“You came here after promising several times that you would visit, especially after spending time with distinguished Albanians in New York. You wanted to see firsthand what you’ve heard about Albania — its tourism, its technology, and, of course, to meet the Minister of Artificial Intelligence. A direct flight would be a major achievement, and we are trying to speed up the process,” Rama said.
Adams said artificial intelligence represented the future and that his visit aimed to strengthen friendship and cooperation rather than division.
“There’s been speculation about my visit, but the real reason I’m here is to build a relationship and friendship that will not allow us to be divided,” he said. “We share the same space and the same concerns, and we must face global challenges together.”