As part of efforts to promote economic diplomacy and enhance institutional cooperation between the Republic of Albania and the Hellenic Republic, Ms Joana Zhonga, representative of the Embassy of the Republic of Albania in Athens, held a working meeting with Professor Antonis Zampelas, President of the Hellenic Food Authority (EFET).

The meeting was also attended by Ms Vasiliki Giannouli, Head of the Meat and Fish Products Department within the Food Safety Directorate, and Ms Fotini Tzoumanika, Head of the Risk Assessment and Nutrition Directorate of EFET.

The meeting focused on prospects for strengthening cooperation between Albania’s National Food Authority (AKU) and the Hellenic Food Authority (EFET), with a view to deepening technical dialogue and developing sustainable mechanisms for cooperation in the field of food safety.

Both sides underlined the importance of exchanging expertise and best practices, particularly in the areas of risk assessment, official controls and food safety. In this context, it was agreed that institutional contacts would continue through an initial virtual meeting between experts of the two authorities.

The possibility of establishing a formal framework for cooperation through the conclusion of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also discussed, alongside the organisation of reciprocal institutional visits aimed at facilitating knowledge exchange and strengthening professional capacities.

The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of both sides to advancing bilateral cooperation and building a sustainable partnership in an area of particular importance for consumer protection and public health.

The Embassy of the Republic of Albania in Athens expresses its appreciation to Professor Antonis Zampelas and the officials of the Hellenic Food Authority for their hospitality and constructive engagement.