TIRANA, July 19/ATA/ The first ministerial forum between Italy and the Western Balkan countries was successfully held, affirming Albania’s role as a bridge between cultures, history, and human values in the region. 

Minister of Tourism and Environment Mirela Kumbaro described the forum as highly fruitful, highlighting its significance not only in promoting the exchange of ideas but also in building a unified platform for tourism, seen as a key economic catalyst and a pillar of social advancement. 

The forum was initiated by the Italian Ministry of Tourism, as part of Minister Daniela Santanchè’s commitment to strengthening bridges of cooperation with the countries of the Balkans. 

According to Minister Kumbaro, the Balkan region represents a significant part of the Mediterranean tourism map, with Albania emerging as a gateway through the Adriatic and Ionian Seas—waters shared by Albania, Greece, Italy, and Montenegro. 

The forum was attended by tourism ministers from the region, who shared ideas and experiences regarding their countries’ tourism offerings. 

“Each country has its own specific features. These are not challenges, but opportunities for growth,” said Kumbaro. 

She further highlighted that tourism is Albania’s mainstay of economy, and that the country was presented as a success story—praised not only by regional peers but also by business leaders participating in the second segment of the forum. 

“Albania and Italy share not only friendship and a common political history but also integrated tourism markets,” Minister Kumbaro emphasized, highlighting that cooperation with Italy is a clear example of efforts to position the region as a unique Mediterranean destination. 

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