Italian Member of the European Parliament Cristina Guarda has spoken out about recent developments in Albania, expressing concern over environmental protection issues and calling on the government to pay attention to the demands of citizens participating in protests.
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In a statement shared on social media, Guarda said that an amendment concerning the protection of the Vjosa-Narta area was approved by a large majority in the European Parliament. According to the Italian MEP, the amendment seeks stronger safeguards for the protected zone and calls for restrictions on new construction projects.
Guarda also reacted to comments made by Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama regarding the European Parliament's discussions on the issue. She argued that the approval of the amendment demonstrated strong support among European lawmakers for increased protection of the Vjosa-Narta ecosystem.
According to Guarda, environmental concerns in the area are linked to a broader development model that, in her view, prioritizes economic interests over scientific recommendations and concerns raised by civil society organizations.
The MEP noted that the European Parliament's latest annual report on Albania recognized progress in the country's European integration process and acknowledged closer ties between Albania and the European Union. However, she stressed that several important challenges remain.
Among the issues highlighted by Guarda were media freedom, corruption, alleged pressures on the judiciary, minority rights, and environmental protection. She argued that recent peaceful demonstrations have brought renewed attention to these topics and reflect civic engagement among Albanian citizens.
Guarda further called for an immediate moratorium on new permits, construction sites, and development projects affecting protected areas until stronger environmental safeguards are established.
"We call for an immediate moratorium on new authorizations, construction sites and projects until protected areas are adequately safeguarded," Guarda said, urging authorities to listen to the concerns raised by citizens participating in public demonstrations.
The debate over the future of the Vjosa-Narta area has become one of the most closely watched environmental issues in Albania, drawing attention from European institutions, environmental organizations, and local communities concerned about the long-term impact of development projects on protected ecosystems.