Prime Minister Edi Rama has reacted to the debates surrounding the revitalization project of the historic area of Durrës, calling the criticisms that have been circulating publicly misinformation. He stressed that the realization of this project is strategic for the future of the old city and its development as a Mediterranean tourist destination.
Rama pointed out that Archaeological Zone A, where the project will be developed, is not an ordinary urban space, but a property of the national heritage treasury and part of the world heritage. The Prime Minister mentioned important monuments such as the Roman Amphitheater of Durrës, the Byzantine Forum of Durrës and the Roman Baths of Durrës, which according to him represent European civilization and not simply national monuments. He added that the inclusion of this area in the UNESCO World Heritage List makes the project an international obligation.
"This project did not arise today, but was based on a long-standing government program and an Integrated Management Plan, drafted by the Ministry of Culture and put out for public consultation in 2022. The Law on Cultural Heritage obliges the state to intervene against degradation and informal construction in cultural heritage areas," Rama declared on the Flasim podcast.
He also stressed that expropriations are an international practice for the preservation of cultural heritage, citing the examples of Rome and Athens: “In Rome, thousands of properties were expropriated for the opening of the Imperial Forums. In Athens, massive expropriations were carried out around the Acropolis for the creation of the archaeological park. We will do exactly that, with sensitivity towards the residents, but with determination towards the national interest.”
