Mediterranean Wetlands Alliance has asked the Albanian Government to cancel the project for the construction of the “Divjaka Albania” Resort in the Divjaka, Karavasta National Park.
Through a letter addressed to Prime Minister Rama and the Minister of Environment Koka, the alliance of 20 environmental protection organizations has expressed concern about the negative and irreversible impact that construction will have on the park and its natural heritage:
“Divjaka-Karavasta, which is one of the two most important wetlands in the Adriatic basin, represents a key site for wildlife, visited every year by millions of waterbirds on their migration route, but is also a key asset for the local economy. “
Environmental organizations appreciate the fact that the Albanian Government has declared the Divjakë-Karavasta Park a protected area of the second category, which has led to an increase of the number of rare animals and birds that grow and live there and has had a positive impact on the development of tourism in the park .
“Drawing lessons from the entire Mediterranean basin but also worldwide, it clearly appears that such a wetland represents a real strength for Albania in terms of biodiversity value, of the numerous ecological services provided to the Albanian people, of the image of Albania. It shouldn’t be considered as an obstacle to development, but as a key advantage for the future of the Nation and its People.” organizations say.
In this context, the Alliance clearly considers that the initiatives for the development of “Resort Divjaka Albania” would be extremely negative and unacceptable. It would be in complete opposition to Albania’s international commitments under the Ramsar Convention, the Bern Convention for the Emerald Network, and the Bonn Convention, “the letter closes.
The Alliance of Organizations expressed their readiness to enter in dialogue with the government and Albanian environmental organizations to improve and maintain the Divjaka Karavasta National Park.
The concern for planning the construction of the resort “Resort Divjaka Albania” within the Park of Divjaka-Karavasta, has been expressed by Exit.al, dozens of environmentalists and citizens engaged for several weeks now.
The construction of a resort violates the law on protected areas and undermines 1170 hectares of one of the few remaining parks in Albania
