Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja presented key achievements in the cultural sector during the launch of the National Culture Strategy 2026–2030.
He described culture as a stable pillar of Albania’s development and a driving force in everyday life. Furthermore, he said the cultural sector has undergone a major transformation in recent years.
In addition, Gonxhja noted that investments in heritage restoration and conservation have increased by over 300% in the last two years. Across the country, around 650 restoration projects have been completed in religious sites, castles, archaeological areas and traditional houses over the past decade.
Moreover, foreign tourist visits have increased significantly. Between 2013 and 2025, Albania recorded a 555% rise in international visitors, reflecting a shift toward cultural and high-value tourism.
He also stated that support for culture and tourism programs has reached around €4 million, benefiting more than 250 applicants.
Furthermore, in 2025 alone, there were 1,162 performances and 120 premieres, marking a significant increase compared to a decade earlier.
In addition, the “International Cultural Weeks” program between 2022 and 2025 organized over 1,800 activities and hosted around 1,200 foreign artists from more than 30 countries.
Finally, Gonxhja highlighted the “CulturAlb” initiative, which promotes Albanian artists abroad and expands the country’s cultural presence on international stages.
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