Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has expressed concern about the impact the protests are having on the tourism sector, warning that cancellations of reservations by foreign tourists are becoming a serious problem for the economy.
In his podcast "Flasim", Rama said that he has received numerous messages from tour operators reporting cancellations for the summer season. According to him, this situation is directly affecting local businesses, household economies and national tourism revenues.
He emphasized that in areas such as Vlora and Durrës, awareness-raising protests have been held by tourism operators, where, according to him, a large part of the sector's businesses have been involved, seeking to prevent the tourist season from being damaged.
Rama added that in Vlora, around 95% of hotels, restaurants and bars have participated in these awareness-raising protests, warning of direct damage to the local and family economy if the tourist season is affected by tensions and uncertainty.
He also said that tourism is one of the main sources of the economy and that a quiet season is essential for increasing revenues. According to him, if cancellations of reservations continue, the current season could be significantly damaged.
also
Rama on protests: I cannot hold Kurti responsible for Vetëvendosje's sallahanas in Albania
In his statement, Rama also spoke about what he called pressure on people on social networks, citing cases of bullying and threats against public figures and artists, including singer Ylli Limani.
He harshly criticized this behavior, describing it as a form of pressure and intolerance towards different opinions, saying that society should not accept the imposition of one group on others.
Rama also warned that polarization and public pressure could harm not only the social climate, but also the economy, especially the tourism sector, which according to him is expected to have one of the most successful seasons in recent years.
He concluded by emphasizing that the protests and pressures leading to cancellations of reservations pose, in his opinion, a direct threat to the country's economy and social stability.
also
Gjeta: The protest has damaged Rama's legitimacy, will force him to resign
Protests in Albania are entering their 15th day today. Citizens gather every day at 18:00 PM.
The protests over Zvërnec began as opposition to a project to build a tourist resort in the protected area of Zvërnec and the Narta Lagoon, in the vicinity of Vlora. Protesters and environmental activists argue that the project endangers the area's ecosystem, biodiversity and public access to the coast, while demanding the cancellation of the project and the protection of one of the most important natural areas in Albania. /TCH
