The theme “The connection of rivers with coastal areas and seas” was the focus of an event in Tirana, marking a significant advancement in Albania’s initiatives to enhance marine and coastal environmental governance according to European Union standards.
The event brought together representatives from central and local institutions, international partners, coastal municipalities, academics, and environmental specialists, who highlighted the critical role of effective marine governance for environmental protection, sustainable economic growth, biodiversity conservation, and the welfare of coastal communities.
Hosted under the “EU4Rivers” project, funded by the European Union and the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), the event also featured the official introduction of a new marine component to assist Albania in executing the newly enacted law on the Marine Strategy and advancing reforms as part of EU Chapter 27 (Environment and Climate Change).
The opening was addressed by Albanian Minister of Environment, Sofjan Jaupaj, European Union Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, and Austrian Deputy Ambassador, Martin Schaller.
Minister Sofjan Jaupaj emphasized that safeguarding rivers, seas, and nature necessitates the establishment of new standards and shared institutional accountability, noting that the marine component’s introduction aligns with the development of the national coordination plan against plastic pollution.
Ambassador Gonzato highlighted that protecting the marine environment is an investment in both people and the economy, stating that the enactment of the Marine Environment Strategy Law is a vital milestone in Albania’s European integration process. He pointed out that the primary challenge lies in the effective implementation of the legislation to achieve tangible outcomes such as cleaner waters, safer food, and sustainable coastal development.
Deputy Ambassador Martin Schaller reaffirmed Austria’s commitment to aiding Albania in developing long-term capabilities for marine and coastal governance by enhancing the connection between institutions and science, improving monitoring, and fostering intersectoral cooperation.
The Marine Component extends the EU4Rivers initiative from river basin management to a holistic “from source to sea” methodology, acknowledging the links between inland waters, coastal regions, and marine ecosystems in accordance with the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive.
Discussions revolved around bolstering scientific knowledge, enhancing monitoring systems, improving institutional coordination, and clarifying roles between national authorities and coastal municipalities. Participants concluded with agreed next steps and a joint commitment to establishing a sustainable framework for marine assessment and governance in Albania.
The EU4Rivers project (2023–2028) is funded by the European Union with 8.5 million euros and co-financed by the Austrian Development Agency with 1.9 million euros, in collaboration with the Water Resources Management Agency and the Ministry of Environment. (20 January)
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