From October 23-26, 2024, Mr. Muaz Kazazi, the Minister's Advisor at the Ministry of Regional Development, and Mrs. Refike Sülçevsi, the Director of the Department for European Integration and Policy Coordination within the Ministry of Regional Development (MRD), along with representatives from the MARDI project, the Municipality of Gjakova, and Swiss Caritas, conducted an official visit to the municipality of Malmö, Sweden. The purpose of the visit was to explore opportunities for collaboration in regional development and integration. This visit marks a significant step in strengthening international relations and sharing experiences in migration management and social sustainability.

During the visit, they had a series of important meetings. The first meeting took place at the University of Malmö, where they met with Professor Maja Povrzanovic Frykman and Valon Junizi. These experts shared profound insights on migration studies and policies for the return of displaced persons, contributing to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by migrating individuals and communities.

Following that, they visited the County Administrative Board (Länsstyrelsen), where they met with Ulrika Jerre, Director of the Unit for Social Sustainability. Discussions focused on strategies and initiatives aimed at improving social sustainability, with a particular focus on the integration of migrants and assistance to different cultural communities.

Another important meeting was held with Malmö Ideella, an umbrella organization for civil society, where they met with Mikael Johansson, Project Manager. They discussed various projects supporting civil society and initiatives for the integration of migrants, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with non-governmental organizations to create a better environment for all members of society.

The visit concluded with a meeting at Malmö City Hall, where Kazazi and Sülçevsi met with Sedat Arif, Deputy Mayor and member of the Labor Market Committee and Social Committee, as well as Ali Reza Yakhdani Riazi, political secretary. The discussions focused on integration management and challenges related to the labor market in Malmö, providing a clear insight into integration and social inclusion policies.

This visit emphasized the importance of international cooperation and the exchange of best practices to create better opportunities for the inclusion of individuals from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. Advisor Kazazi and Director Sülçevsi expressed optimism about the results that these initiatives can bring to the country’s development and highlighted the Ministry of Regional Development’s commitment to improving integration policies.