UK's ex-PM Tony Blair to advise Albania's new govt in its efforts to join 28-nation EU
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair speaks at the Balkan Peace Festival, organized by the Indian "Sahara Group" in honor of the International Day of Non-Violence, in Skopje, Macedonia, Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski) (The Associated Press)
Albania's new Socialist premier says former British Prime Minister Tony Blair will assist as an adviser in Albania's efforts to join the 28-nation European Union.
Edi Rama said Thursday that Blair would be "personally, totally and voluntarily" advising the Albanian government and helping with his "extraordinary experience and political geniality."
Speaking at a briefing in Tirana, Blair said "the big challenge with the government today is getting things done."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Rama, who was sworn in as prime minister last month, has promised to create 300,000 jobs and reduce poverty. A recent survey shows one in seven Albanians live on less than $2 per day.
Albania is one of Europe's poorest countries with an average salary of 36,482 leks ($361) per month.