Brussels, June 09 (Albania Journal) – The European Commission has urged Albania to quickly align with EU environmental laws if it hopes to join the European Union, responding to concerns over a planned luxury resort backed by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The comments came after Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama told Reuters on Monday that the government would move forward with the project despite growing protests over its potential environmental impact.
The proposed resort is planned for a remote stretch of Albania’s southern coastline, an area known for its rich biodiversity and as an important stopover for migratory flamingos. Environmental activists have dubbed the demonstrations the “Flamingo Revolution,” and the movement has expanded into broader criticism of Rama’s 13 years in power.
The European Union, which has indicated that countries including Albania, Montenegro and Ukraine could join the bloc by 2030, requires candidate nations to comply with EU laws and standards, including environmental regulations.
“Albania should refrain from action that could undermine the fulfilment of the closing benchmark, and we expect the Albanian authorities to act without delay,” European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier said on Tuesday.
Mercier added that the Commission remains in contact with Albanian authorities regarding the issue.
In recent days, protesters have gathered in both Tirana and southern coastal areas where the resort is planned. Critics argue that the development could damage sensitive ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
Rama dismissed concerns that the project would harm the environment, saying an environmental impact assessment would be completed before construction proceeds.
“We are very proud of what we have done for the wildlife in Albania,” Rama said. “The European Commission has no reason to doubt our firm will to protect whatever has to be protected when it comes to wildlife and nature.”
The resort is expected to be developed by Affinity Partners, the investment firm founded by Jared Kushner. The company has not responded to Reuters’ requests for comment.
