Albanian Water Sector Delegation Participates in IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition in Glasgow

Representatives of Albania’s water sector participated in the 2026 IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition, held on 4–8 October in Glasgow, United Kingdom. The event brought together more than 8,500 participants across delegates and exhibition visits, alongside 350 exhibitors.

Organized by the International Water Association (IWA) every two years, the Congress is one of the leading global events dedicated to the water sector, covering the full water cycle. Under the theme “Water action – the path to resilience and prosperity,” the 2026 edition provided an international platform for discussing the latest scientific and technological developments, strengthening partnerships and translating global water commitments into practical action.

The Albanian delegation included representatives from water supply and sewerage companies, the National Agency for Water Supply and Sewerage (AKUK), the Water Regulatory Authority and SHUKALB.

SHUKALB was represented by Elisabeta Poçi, Executive Director and IWA Board Member, who co-chaired Session 3, titled “WS 5.7 | Regulatory Developments as Moving Targets for the Water Sector,” on 6 October. Her participation contributed to discussions on regulatory developments and emerging challenges facing the water sector.

An important part of the Albanian delegation’s participation was the Western Balkans Water Sector Workshop, held on 7 October alongside the Congress. The workshop brought together representatives from Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as representatives of IWA, the European Water Association (EWA) and the International Association Of Water Service Companies In The Danube Region (IAWD).

The workshop provided an opportunity for water sector stakeholders from across the region to exchange experiences, discuss common challenges and strengthen cooperation. Bringing together associations, utilities and regional and international organizations, the meeting reinforced the value of coordinated efforts and knowledge sharing in supporting the development of water and wastewater services across the Western Balkans.

Participation in the Congress offered Albania’s water sector representatives an opportunity to connect with international peers, learn about global developments and strengthen partnerships supporting the improvement of water and wastewater services in Albania and across the Western Balkans.