Albania’s government has approved a draft law to establish a National Art Fund. The initiative will use part of the savings from public procurement to support artists and invest in the country’s cultural heritage.

Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja said the fund would allocate up to 10% of verified procurement savings to purchase artworks and historically valuable collections. The government will approve the annual allocation through the state budget.

The fund aims to support artistic creation and expand public art collections. It will also help citizens access and appreciate more artworks.

Experts will select the works, with technical support from the National Gallery of Arts. Once purchased, the artworks will become public property and go on display in cultural institutions and public spaces. Meanwhile, authorities will ensure transparency in the selection process and all spending.

The fund will use savings that the finance ministry has verified and certified as available for redistribution. However, its annual allocation cannot exceed 10% of the total verified savings from public procurement.

In addition, the fund may receive donations, sponsorships and grants from the European Union, international organisations and strategic cultural partners. These contributions could provide extra funding and strengthen cooperation with the private sector.

The draft law must first win Parliament’s approval. If lawmakers adopt it, the fund will begin operating in January 2027. Ultimately, the initiative aims to give artists greater support, make art more accessible to the public and preserve valuable works for future generations.

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