PM defends coastal tourism projects after protests

Albania’s prime minister has defended two disputed coastal tourism projects after protests over foreign investment and protected land.

Edi Rama said Sazan, a former military island off Albania’s south-west coast, would remain state property and had not been sold to private investors.

He also said a planned development in Zvërnec, near the Narta lagoon, had not received a construction permit and must still pass environmental checks.

Rama rejected claims that protected-area rules had been changed to clear the way for the project.