Tirana is hosting the 20th Annual Conference of the UNESCO Network of Experts on Intangible Cultural Heritage in South-East Europe, highlighting Albania’s cooperation with international partners to protect and promote cultural heritage.

The conference brings together international experts and representatives of Albanian institutions. They are exchanging experience, sharing good practices and exploring new ways to strengthen regional cooperation in safeguarding cultural heritage.

In a video message, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja described the meeting as an important opportunity to strengthen cooperation between Albania and its international partners.

He stressed that UNESCO experts are working directly with Albanian institutions, demonstrating a shared commitment to cultural heritage protection.

Meanwhile, Gonxhja announced a major increase in government funding for cultural heritage in 2027. According to the minister, the budget will rise by 80%, supporting restoration, preservation and promotion projects across the country.

More specifically, the additional funding will support the revival and protection of cultural traditions, the development of new museum spaces and investment in archaeological sites. It will also strengthen restoration capacities and provide additional staff for heritage institutions.

Furthermore, the government plans to introduce legal reforms and other measures to promote cultural tourism and encourage greater community involvement in heritage protection.

Turning to the archaeological site of Byllis, Gonxhja said that the project, supported by the European Union and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, is currently underway and construction work is progressing successfully.

At the same time, international UNESCO heritage experts are continuing their work in Butrint. They are assessing the condition of monuments, monitoring conservation work and examining plans for future interventions.

The minister underlined that international experts are working alongside Albanian specialists, both in Tirana and at archaeological sites.

He also addressed criticism concerning the management of cultural heritage, saying that the government welcomes criticism but insists that public debate should be based on facts.

According to Gonxhja, protecting cultural heritage requires investment, professional expertise and concrete action rather than alarming headlines.

The 20th UNESCO conference provides an important platform for international dialogue and regional cooperation, while placing the protection of cultural heritage and the preservation of cultural identity at the centre of discussions.

/a.c/