The fight against corruption and organized crime remains a key priority for the United States in Albania, as newly appointed U.S. Ambassador Eric Wendt held talks with the country’s top officials overseeing the fight against organized crime and corruption.

Wendt met with Klodjan Braho, head of Albania’s Special Prosecutor’s Office against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK), and Joni Keta, head of the National Bureau of Investigation (BKH), emphasizing the important role of independent institutions in addressing major security and law enforcement challenges.

The U.S. Embassy in Tirana shared photographs from the meeting, underscoring Washington’s focus on cooperation with Albania’s justice and law enforcement institutions.

“The fight against transnational crime, narcotics trafficking and illegal migration is among President Donald Trump’s top priorities,” the embassy said. “Ambassador Eric Wendt met with the leaders of SPAK to discuss the critical role of independent institutions in addressing these challenges and how our partnership contributes to a safer and more prosperous future for both our nations.”

Wendt began his diplomatic mission in Albania only days ago. Among his first official meetings were talks with Prime Minister Edi Rama and Albania’s Foreign Minister, Ferit Hoxha.

His arrival marks the return of a U.S. ambassador to Tirana after the American diplomatic mission had been led at the chargé d’affaires level since the departure of Ambassador Yuri Kim in 2023.

The meeting with SPAK and BKH comes as Washington continues to emphasize cooperation with Albanian institutions in tackling organized crime, corruption, drug trafficking and other cross-border security challenges.