Albania has become the first country in the world to introduce AI-generated minister, which is a virtual minister made of pixels and code and powered by artificial intelligence.
Named Diella, meaning “Sun” in Albanian, the AI minister is developed by the National Agency for Information Society of Albania (AKSHI). Diella holds the position of the Minister for Public Procurements of Albania, making it the first AI system in the world to hold a cabinet-level government role.
The appointment came after the Prime Minister, Edi Rama was given permission by the president Bajram Begaj to oversee the establishment and functioning of a virtual AI minister.
To lessen political influence in tender procedures, procurement tasks are intended to be gradually shifted to the system. The appointment is an important part of larger anti-corruption reforms and initiatives aimed at bringing Albania into compliance with EU accession requirements.
In January 2025, Diella has been introduced to Albanian citizens as she powers the country’s e-Albania platform, which allows citizens to access almost all government services digitally. She even has an avatar, appearing as a young woman dressed in traditional Albanian clothing.
It was unclear if Rama would request a vote on Diella’s virtual role, but lawmakers will shortly vote on his new cabinet. Diella, who is portrayed as a woman wearing a traditional Albanian folk costume, may require additional effort to establish her formal status, according to legal experts.
