UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee has approved three important decisions for Albania. The Albanian delegation presented its progress report during the 47th session of the committee.

First, Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation Blendi Gonxhja confirmed the news. He said the decisions reflect Albania’s steady work to protect and manage its heritage.

The committee reviewed four sites. These included Butrint National Park, the historic centers of Berat and Gjirokastër, and the Albanian side of Lake Ohrid.

According to the minister, Butrint received strong praise. The committee welcomed better planning, infrastructure improvements, and new restoration efforts. Moreover, Albania has worked closely with both local and international partners.

Meanwhile, the review also highlighted progress in Berat and Gjirokastër. Gonxhja said UNESCO valued efforts to preserve architecture, involve communities, and manage tourism responsibly.

As for Lake Ohrid, the focus was on regional cooperation. The Albanian and North Macedonian governments presented a joint position. Both sides pledged to improve coordination and adopt shared strategies for protection.

However, the minister also recalled earlier challenges. In 2019, when the Albanian part of Lake Ohrid joined the World Heritage List, ICOMOS had proposed listing it as “in danger.” That move reflected environmental risks and poor planning inherited from the past.

Even so, Gonxhja said recent years have brought real progress. Through coordinated action, the two countries improved planning, daily management, and long-term development. In addition, cultural values now enjoy stronger protection.

He called the latest decisions a meaningful sign of recognition. Yet, at the same time, he noted that many challenges remain ahead.

For this reason, the minister urged full institutional commitment. He called on central and local authorities, researchers, and public and private actors to stay engaged. In his view, only teamwork and professionalism can meet rising tourism pressures.

Finally, Gonxhja described the decisions as both a message of support and a public expression of gratitude. He thanked everyone who works daily to protect Albania’s cultural and natural heritage.

/a.p./