National Conference on Sustainable Tourism in Albania
In recent years, Albania has made significant strides towards promoting sustainable tourism. A notable development is the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This agreement underscores Albania’s commitment to adopting global standards and best practices in sustainable tourism, aiming to enhance the quality and sustainability of its tourism sector.
The Ministry of Tourism and Environment in cooperation with Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) supported project, RisiAlbania, implemented by Helvetas and Partners Albania are pleased to announce the upcoming National Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development in Albania. Scheduled for December 6, 2024, at the Opera & Ballet Theatre in Tirana, this event will gather key stakeholders from the tourism sector to discuss and promote sustainable tourism practices in Albania.
The conference will commence with the registration of participants, followed by welcoming remarks and an opening address by Mrs. Mirela Kumbaro, Minister of Tourism and Environment of Albania. Mrs. Kumbaro will highlight Albania’s dedication to sustainable tourism and the recent MoU with GSTC. H.E. Ruth Huber, Ambassador of Switzerland in Albania, will then express Switzerland’s support for Albania’s efforts in advancing sustainable tourism.
Participants will gain insights from Ms. Cordula Wohlmuther, UN Tourism Director ad interim for the Regional Department for Europe, who will discuss global perspectives and regional strategies for sustainable tourism. Mr. Randy Durband, CEO of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, will elaborate on Albania’s commitment to global standards and the importance of quality management for sustainability.
The conference will feature several panel discussions, including topics such as the National Tourism Strategy, the integration of GSTC criteria, and the implementation of sustainable tourism practices in Albania. Esteemed panelists, including Mrs. Ilva Gjuzi, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment of Albania, and Prof. Urs Wagenseil from Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, will share their expertise and experiences.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with GSTC-accredited certification bodies, Albanian private businesses, and international experts during the networking session. This session aims to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange, further supporting the development of sustainable tourism in Albania.