New Delhi: Diella is an artificial intelligence developed by the National Agency for Information Society of Albania (AKSHI), that was introduced at the start of the year as the virtual assistant integrated into the eAlbania platform to provide governance services to the citizens of Albania. The likeness and the voice of the avatar is provided by the Albanian actress Anila Bisha. The technology has been used since then to provide a wide range of administrative services to citizens and business in Albania. On 11 September, Diella was formally appointed as the ‘Minsiter for Public Procurement’ by the Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama. The idea is to ensure that public tenders are free of corruption.

Dikshu C Kukreja, the Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Albania explained the decision to News9, “Albania’s introduction of the world’s first AI-based minister marks a historic step in reimagining governance for the future. By entrusting artificial intelligence with the responsibility of overseeing public tenders, Albania is demonstrating its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of technology. This initiative is about more than efficiency; it is about embedding safeguards of fairness, consistency, and clarity into the very fabric of governance, ensuring that public trust remains at the center of national policy.”

Albania as a trailblazer in Governance Innovation

The AI is capable of issuing digitally stamped documents, and can interact in a natural way through voice with citizens. The technology demonstrates the potential for AI to increase transparency, accountability and trust in governance. Kukreja explains, “Such a move reflects Albania’s vision of embracing progressive reforms that are aligned with the highest global standards of integrity and good governance. It signals a determination to strengthen institutions, streamline processes, and reduce opportunities for misuse by making decision-making processes data-driven and transparent. The introduction of Diella is therefore not only a bold innovation but also a symbol of Albania’s readiness to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. This initiative positions Albania as a trailblazer in governance innovation and offers inspiration for other nations seeking to build systems that are both technologically advanced and deeply rooted in democratic principles. It is a forward-looking step that will resonate far beyond its borders.”