Gjirokastër is to represent itself to tourists with its own local brand, not an imported one. This is the view of authentic artisans from the city, who are concerned as some businesses in the historic bazaar are dominated by foreign goods.

These issues were raised during a meeting organized by the Municipality of Gjirokastër and the Hotel Association, where the idea of creating an artisans’ association was proposed.

“The idea of forming an association was born so that their thoughts, ideas, and concerns wouldn’t remain spontaneous,” said Gentian Bineri, President of the Hotel Association.

According to embroidery master Eli Zhulati, this initiative would also help identify new artisans lacking resources to open their own shop.

“The inability to afford a small shop in the bazaar or elsewhere results in them working from home,” explained Zhulati.

Craftsmanship is a valuable asset for the development of tourism in the city of stone.

/a.p./