The 2026 draft budget focuses on growth and modernization. It funds 11 key programs in energy, infrastructure, natural resources, industry, and transport. It also supports urban planning, water supply, and sewerage projects.

Deputy Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Enkeleda Muçaj said the government is pushing forward with strategic projects. Many of them are now close to completion.

“Our goal is to finish public investments and promote regional development in 2026,” she said.

The Qukës–Qafë Plloçë road is now complete. “The project faced serious technical and geological issues, but today it is finished and open to traffic,” Muçaj declared.

Likewise, the Korçë–Ersekë road is in the warranty phase. The contractor is fixing minor issues without extra cost to the state. “The road meets technical standards, and verification continues,” she added.

Meanwhile, the Thumanë–Kashar toll road remains one of the most important concession projects. It is part of the national plan to modernize Albania’s main road network.

In addition, Muçaj said the Milot–Balldren project is under offer review. It will move to the next stage by June 2026.

Work also continues on the Elbasan–Qafë Thanë route. The first 5 kilometers are complete. The second lot, 3.84 km long, will finish by April 2026. The Librazhd bypass has reached more than 50% progress.

At the same time, the ministry is preparing designs for the Rrogozhinë–Durrës road. Discussions on financing the Elbasan bypass are ongoing.

Muçaj clarified that the Milot–Balldren segment is under concession and not included in the budget. “All parts of the Ionian Corridor follow concession procedures,” she explained.

She stressed that improving road infrastructure remains a top priority. “Better roads mean easier travel, faster transport, and more tourism,” she said.

Deputy Minister Besjan Kadiu added that the 2026 budget also supports the energy sector. It focuses on three main areas: industry, natural resources, and energy.

“The industry program receives 421 million lekë—364 million for current expenses and 57 million for capital investments,” Kadiu noted. “Meanwhile, the natural resources program gets 473.2 million lekë, including 395 million for operations and 78 million for capital spending.”

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