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“The connection of rivers with coastal areas and seas” was the theme of the activity held in Tirana, marking an important step in Albania’s efforts to strengthen marine and coastal environmental governance, in line with European Union standards.
The activity brought together representatives of central and local institutions, international partners, coastal municipalities, academics and environmental experts, who emphasized the importance of effective marine governance not only for environmental protection, but also for sustainable economic development, the preservation of biodiversity and the improvement of the well-being of coastal communities.
Organized in the framework of the “EU4Rivers” project, financed by the European Union and the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), the activity also marked the official presentation of the new marine component, which aims to support Albania in implementing the recently adopted law on the Marine Strategy and in advancing reforms within the framework of EU Chapter 27 (Environment and Climate Change).
The opening remarks were delivered by the Albanian Minister of Environment, Sofjan Jaupaj, the European Union ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, and the deputy ambassador of Austria, Martin Schaller.
The Minister of Environment, Sofjan Jaupaj, stated that the protection of rivers, seas and nature requires the establishment of new standards and shared institutional responsibility, emphasizing that the presentation of the marine component of EU4Rivers coincides with the preparation of the national coordination plan against pollution from plastics.
Ambassador Gonzato stressed that the protection of the marine environment is a direct investment in people and the economy, underlining that the adoption of the Law on the Marine Environment Strategy represents an important step in Albania’s European integration process. He added that the main challenge remains the practical implementation of the legislation, in order to achieve concrete results such as cleaner waters, safer food and sustainable development of coastal areas.
For his part, the deputy ambassador of Austria, Martin Schaller, stated that Austria remains committed to supporting Albania in building long-term capacities in marine and coastal governance, through linking institutions with science, improving monitoring and strengthening intersectoral cooperation.
The Marine Component expands the EU4Rivers project from the management of river basins towards a comprehensive “from source to sea” approach, recognizing the interconnection between inland waters, coastal areas and marine ecosystems, in line with the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
The discussions focused on strengthening scientific knowledge, improving monitoring systems, increasing institutional coordination and clarifying roles between national authorities and coastal municipalities. In conclusion, the participants agreed on the next steps and the joint commitment to building a sustainable framework for marine assessment and governance in Albania.
The EU4Rivers project (2023–2028) is financed by the European Union with 8.5 million euros and co-financed by the Austrian Development Agency with 1.9 million euros, and is implemented in cooperation with the Water Resources Management Agency and the Ministry of Environment. (20 January)