The delegation, comprising MEPs Tineke Strik, Daniel Freund, Cristina Guarda, Jutta Paulus and Anna Strolenberg, visited Tirana to gather information on a potential project in the sensitive coastal area.

Jaupaj said no final project proposal had been filed with the relevant authorities and no construction activity had begun, as no building permits had been issued.

He assured the MEPs that the Environment Ministry was closely monitoring developments and that any future proposal would be assessed in full compliance with Albanian law and EU environmental acquis.

According to Jaupaj, any submitted project would undergo a comprehensive environmental impact assessment based on high professional standards, with full transparency, public consultation and involvement of all competent institutions.

He stressed that biodiversity protection, natural habitats, protected species and the ecological integrity of the area would remain “non-negotiable priorities” throughout the process.

Jaupaj also reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to EU integration, noting that alignment with EU environmental standards under Chapter 27 on Environment and Climate Change requires full harmonisation of legislation and enforcement.

He said Albanian institutions would continue to act transparently and in line with both national and EU obligations, ensuring environmental protection and the public interest remain central to any decision-making process.

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Speaking during a parliamentary interpellation requested by opposition lawmakers over the proposed investment in the coastal area of Zvërnec, Vlora municipality, Jaupaj said the project had been referred for a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), requiring a comprehensive scientific review of its potential effects on biodiversity, protected habitats, water resources, soil, climate and local communities.

“The highest level of environmental assessment provided for under Albanian legislation has been activated,” Jaupaj said.

He rejected claims that environmental procedures had been bypassed, saying the developer applied for environmental review on May 5 and authorities subsequently determined that the project required an in-depth assessment.

Jaupaj said the Pishë Poro-Nartë area is classified as a Category V protected landscape, a designation that allows certain economic, tourism and community activities under regulated conditions.

“Albanian law does not impose an absolute ban on tourism development in Category V protected areas. It establishes conditions, procedures and safeguards governing how such projects may be carried out,” he said.

Environment Minister also disputed claims that the project would automatically violate EU environmental standards.

“The European Union does not impose a blanket prohibition on development. What EU legislation requires is an assessment of the project’s actual impact on protected habitats and species,” Jaupaj said, referring to the bloc’s Habitats and Birds Directives.

He said the government’s role was to ensure that any development complies with environmental legislation, biodiversity protection requirements and European standards, while supporting economic growth and employment.

“The question is not whether development can take place, but whether it respects the law, environmental criteria and European standards,” Jaupaj said.

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