Invited to Radio Tirana, Olsi Nika and Besjana Guri talk about the latest initiatives taken by EcoAlbania in the campaign for the protection of Vjosa.
The Vjosa River, one of the most valuable natural assets for Europe, is already endangered by the uncontrolled construction of hydropower projects. The vision of environmental organizations, residents and local government for the future of the river is to declare it a National Park according to European standards, promoting sustainable development.
Recently, the mayors of the municipalities of Përmet, Tepelënë, Memaliaj, Mallakastër and Selenica have sent an open letter to the Prime Minister Edi Rama and the Speaker of the Parliament Ilir Meta asking the central government to: Re-consider the HPP projects along the Vjosa River and its branches; undertake initiatives for the suspension of the concession contracts concluded for the construction of HPPs along the Vjosa River and its tributaries; to guarantee the implementation of mechanisms for community participation in decision-making which originate from the Albanian legislation in force; to cooperate with the LGUs of the Vjosa valley and other actors, to explore strategies for sustainable economic development for the area, considering development projects that do not harm the integrity of the river and that guarantee the protection of our natural heritage; to demand full transparency from the Greek Government on interstate agreements on rivers.
For more, you can listen to the full interview below:
