Blendi Gonxhja, the Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, shared insights into the challenges faced by the institution he oversees, which combines three ministries with a broad scope of responsibilities.

In a recent television interview, Gonxhja highlighted the difficulty of managing three ministries, emphasizing the importance of transforming the Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation (MEKI) into a results-driven institution. With a staff of 275 covering three portfolios, he acknowledged the struggles with recruitment and low salaries, but noted that their offices are now centrally located in Tirana to facilitate their work. Despite this, organizing regular meetings remains challenging.

Gonxhja explained that Lira Pipa has been appointed as the Minister of Culture while also serving as Deputy Minister. He stressed the importance of having the right people in the right positions and managing human capital effectively. “Every action I’ve taken has been done with great responsibility,” he added.

On the topic of pensions, Gonxhja praised Deputy Minister Enkelejd Musabelliu for leading pension reforms, noting that 25% of the state budget is allocated to pensions. “The government cannot fix everything with a stroke of the pen,” he said, underscoring the complexity of addressing this issue.

Turning to education and culture, Gonxhja discussed ongoing projects aimed at enhancing Albania’s cultural landscape. He highlighted efforts to address challenges facing the National Library and establish a major book center. Additionally, he revealed plans to re-conceptualize the Palace of Culture, transforming both its interior and exterior spaces. Major upgrades are also planned for the National Gallery, with 35 million euros already invested in the Opera Theater.

Gonxhja also touched on the construction of the New National Children’s Center near Lake Park, as well as the progress of the National Theater project. However, he pointed out that not all cultural projects can be funded solely by the state budget. To complement public efforts, the Ministry is focusing on philanthropy and aims to showcase archaeological findings from the TAP project excavations.

“Philanthropy will be a key part of our future initiatives,” Gonxhja concluded, stressing the need for more cultural investments as a means of safeguarding Albania’s heritage and future.