Tirana, October 16, 2025_A morning of exchanges and interesting discussions was held today at the Tirana International Hotel, across from Skanderbeg Square, always crowded of tourists visiting the Albanian capital.
Thanks to the project “Lakes of Albania”, implemented by a consortium led by the CSOs COSV and VIS, a wide range of stakeholders involved in this initiative and in the sustainable tourism sector in Albania met and, in three specific panels, addressed the key topics of partnerships, social and inclusive economy, alternative tourism models, and ideas for local governance able to contribute to the development of new opportunities.
The conference comes at an important time for tourism promotion in Albania. The 2024-2030 National Tourism Strategy aims to promote alternative sustainable tourism practices, ecotourism, and strong engagement with local communities, recognizing that social inclusion and environmental protection are essential for a slow, self-aware, and sustainable tourism.
“For the Italian Cooperation, sustainable tourism is much more than an economic opportunity: it is a way to promote social inclusion, protect natural and cultural heritage, and strengthen local identities” stated Letizia Fischioni, AICS Tirana Deputy Head of Office. “In the Western Balkans, AICS is committed to integrating environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and cultural promotion into tourism models that create long-term opportunities for local communities, especially young people” Fischioni concluded.
