Successful Economic Diplomacy Training in Tirana

What skills are needed to navigate the complex world of international business as a diplomat? What role can diplomats play in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI)? And how can economic resilience be embedded in economic diplomacy?

These questions were at the heart of a recent Clingendael Academy programme in Tirana, bringing together diplomats from the Albanian Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs and civil servants from the Albanian Investment Development Agency (AIDA). The rich experiences of this diverse group, combined with their openness to share and eagerness to learn, provided a strong foundation for a fruitful training.

Participants explored how diplomats can contribute to attracting FDI and connecting stakeholders across different sectors. In light of Albania’s EU integration path, they also examined how to incorporate economic resilience into their diplomatic strategies. A new module on intercultural communication in a business context prepared them for effective public–private engagement in the international arena, while practical exercises helped refine their ability to persuade investors and promote their initiatives with confidence.

Throughout the programme, there were valuable exchanges between the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Albanian Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and Clingendael Academy. These discussions focused, among other things, on the Dutch model of economic diplomacy and the exchange of experiences in strengthening diplomatic skills and professional development.

Clingendael Academy is proud to have delivered this training in close cooperation with the Diplomatic Academy of Albania, and warmly thanks all participants for their commitment and inspiring engagement.