“When it comes to development in protected areas, many present the debate as a choice between nature and economy. But, there are places that show that the reality can be quite different. Ria Formosa, in the south of Portugal, is one of the most important lagoons in Europe. A unique landscape with flamingos, migratory birds, sandy islands, coastal dunes and an extraordinary biodiversity, Rama wrote.

And, the prime minister added, “Precisely there, in the heart of this landscape, Portugal built one of the most successful stories of economic transformation in Europe”.

“A few decades ago, the Algarve was a peripheral region, with an economy mainly based on agriculture and fishing, with low incomes and high emigration. Instead of following the model of low-value mass tourism, Portugal made a strategic choice: it invested in luxury and high-value tourism, Rama emphasized.

“This is how destinations like Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo were born, located next to one of the most important ecosystems in Europe. Not despite nature. Thanks to nature,” said Rama, adding that the result was “billions of euros of private investment. Thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Significant increase in property values. Much higher income for each tourist. A tourist season that lasts all year round. The transformation of the Algarve into one of the most prestigious destinations in Europe.”

And in the meantime, added Rama, “The flamingos are still there. The migratory birds are still there. The lagoon is still there. Even biodiversity itself has become part of the tourist product. Visitors do not go to the Algarve despite the Ria Formosa. They go because of it.”

According to the prime minister, the lesson is simple.

“The question is not whether nature and development can coexist. The question is whether we have the vision, knowledge and will to make them coexist. Because wealth is not created by choosing between nature and development. Wealth is created when nature becomes part of development and development becomes an ally of nature”, he emphasized.

“Ria Formosa is no longer a theory—it is a proven, visible success story”, added Rama.

“We have moved past a difficult century and are now transforming into one of the world’s most dynamic tourist destinations. Albania is finally being appreciated globally for what it is—a truly blessed country full of potential”, concluded PM Rama. /gj.m/a.f/p.s./