TIRANA, November 18 – Tourism, Culture, and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja presented the 2026 budget to the Parliamentary Commission for Culture, Tourism, and Diaspora.

Gonxhja said the sectors cannot rely solely on the state budget. He noted the need to preserve heritage, renovate historic sites, and improve architecture across the country.

The budget totals 7.4 billion Lekë, a slight increase from 2025. Gonxhja highlighted that allocations for programs rose by 20%. He emphasized the need to balance infrastructure, service improvements, and support for artistic talent between 2026 and 2028.

The minister said Albania aims to become an attractive, quality, and sustainable tourist destination. He stressed the importance of diversifying tourism products for year-round activity. Efforts will promote the country internationally, develop coastal services, expand tourism offerings, and highlight local products.

In culture and heritage, Gonxhja prioritized expanding cultural markets, strengthening legal and institutional support, protecting material and intangible heritage, and rehabilitating monuments, museums, and landscapes. He also highlighted funding for theater, music, visual arts, film, ballet, national ensembles, and digitization at the national level.

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