Albania is also involved in significant regional environmental processes. It has joined in a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation with Greece and FYR of Macedonia in order to improve joint environmental protection efforts. Created in March 2000, RERep is seeking to target funding to priority environmental projects in member states. The program, however, has not yet achieved the level of international assistance needed to support its agenda. These international and regional developments do much to enhance the country's legal framework for environmental protection.
Significant challenges remain, however, for Albania.
Most importantly, a clear strategic vision is needed to provide strong direction and coordination to the country's international partners. Among other things, this process will require the harmonization and rationalization of Government strategies and legislation. Environmental management instruments Albania has many relevant environmental statutes, but very limited enforcement of them. Inspectors may impose fines, withdraw permits, suspend or close operations, and enforce environmental crime statutes. Fines, however, are rarely paid, because collection procedures are slow and cumbersome.