The new road is expected to boost tourism and agriculture development in the southeast Albania.

PM Rama said in his remarks that the road “not only eases access to the southeast, but also creates new opportunities for the entire region by stimulating agriculture, tourism and agritourism.”

Deputy PM Balluku noted that the project, originally designed in 2010–2011, had to be completely revised due to poor planning and complex geological conditions.

Work resumed in 2015 under a new design ensuring connections with local villages in the Mokra Highlands.

“This is the longest and most challenging project because it started the wrong way,” Rama said, calling its completion a “major relief” for residents and the wider region.

The new road will also reduce congestion on routes to Pogradec and the Kapshtica border crossing with Greece, and integrates into Corridor VIII linking central Albania with south-eastern Europe.

Locals welcomed the inauguration with traditional drums and bread with salt.

Construction involved challenging engineering work, including more than 20 bridges, two tunnels measuring 850 and 350 meters, an emergency tunnel, and extensive retaining walls. The project was divided into three sections, with the final 9.3-km lot now completed.

Officials say the new highway will significantly improve access for local communities while offering scenic views that could attract more visitors to the region.

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The third and final segment of the 9.3-kilometre lot is being completed by engineering firm “2T,” and upon finishing, the full 43-kilometre route is expected to open for traffic.

The project is designed to improve travel conditions, reduce journey times and facilitate traffic between the Tirana–Elbasan corridor and southeastern regions, including Korçë and the Kapshticë border crossing.

Officials said it will also support the movement of heavy vehicles and shorten transport times for goods from the port of Durrës to eastern markets.

Local authorities highlighted the road’s wider economic and social benefits. The project is expected to boost tourism in the Pogradec and Korçë areas, enhance access to rural villages in Mokra, and support agriculture and local trade. Improved connectivity is also expected to create new employment opportunities and strengthen regional integration.

Considered a strategic infrastructure investment, the Qukës–Qafë Plloçë road addresses decades of limited transport options in the region and is seen as a catalyst for economic growth and social development in southeastern Albania.

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