Minister says foreign interests fuel Albania tourism protests

Albania’s economy minister has claimed foreign and rival tourism interests are helping fuel protests against major coastal projects.

Delina Ibrahimaj said competition for tourists in the region meant some actors wanted investment to go to neighbouring countries instead of Albania.

She said some protesters had genuine concerns, but claimed others were using those causes for political or economic aims.

Ibrahimaj said “people, states and entities” had an interest in encouraging the protests, without naming them.

The comments come as demonstrations continue against disputed tourism projects, including one near the protected Vjosa-Narta lagoon.