TIRANA, July 31 – The government approved the National Culture Strategy 2026-2030, Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja said after the Council of Ministers meeting.

Gonxhja said the strategy follows Albania’s development priorities, European integration goals and international commitments in art and culture. He added that it aims to strengthen culture as a factor of social, economic and territorial development. The strategy also seeks to improve citizens’ well-being, strengthen social cohesion and support balanced regional development.

Meanwhile, the minister said Albania aims to consolidate its position by 2030 as an important cultural center in the Western Balkans and an active participant in the European cultural space. The strategy includes reforms such as reviewing the Law on Art and Culture, updating heritage protection rules and establishing the status of artists through an inter-sectoral framework.

The document also promotes cultural tourism through authentic experiences in creativity, craftsmanship and performing arts. Gonxhja said the financing model combines state funding with additional external resources. He noted that current annual cultural funding stands at around 4 billion ALL.

The minister added that art and culture funding calls generated 1,700 events in the first six months of 2026, marking a 26% increase compared with the previous year. He also said consultations continue on the Sponsorship Law, which aims to create new financing opportunities for culture, sports and youth.

/a.p./