The European Commission warned Albania that the project would Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law, on Sazan Island could bring it into conflict with EU environmental rules, which would threaten the closure of Chapter 27 in the accession negotiations. That chapter is about the environment.
Photo: APThe place where flamingos live
"We expect the Albanian authorities to act without delay," a spokesperson for the European Commission told Politico.
"In the EU accession process, as part of the final benchmarks for the negotiated Chapter 27 on environment and climate change, Albania is expected to fully comply with EU legislation in this area, including the Birds Directive and the Habitats Directive," the spokesman said, calling on Albania to reverse the amendments to the Law on Protected Areas and repeal the Law on Strategic Investments. As part of the EU accession process, Albania must align its regulations with European environmental protection rules.
Photo: APFlamingos on a walk
The spokesperson also said that Albanian Environment Minister Sofjan Jaupaj informed the Commission in Brussels that work on the project has been suspended and that an environmental impact assessment will be conducted with the participation of civil society organizations.
"We have already expressed our concern to the Minister of the Environment about the possible shortcomings of this project," said the spokesperson.
Jared Kushner's intention to build a tourist resort on the island of Sazan between the Adriatic and Ionian seas.
National Park
This area is located in the Karaburun–Sazan National Marine Park. This means that the beaches and waters within two kilometers of the coast are protected.
Photo: APProtests over the Kushner project
The board chaired by Edi Rama granted Kushner's company Affinity Global Development the status of "Investment/Strategic Investor - Special Procedure", which is considered a project of strategic importance for the country.
The business plan and feasibility study of this project were not complete.
Photo: APCitizens defend protected nature with a protest
Citizens of Albania are demanding the abandonment of the construction of a luxury resort on the island of Sazan, claiming that it threatens a protected area where flamingos, seals and sea turtles nest, writes Politiko.
The protests have been going on for a week.
Source: N1
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