National Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development in Albania

On December 6th, 2024, Tirana hosted an event that brought together key players in the tourism industry, government representatives, and sustainability advocates. The discussions revolved around implementing Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Criteria in Albania, integrating sustainability into national strategies, and addressing challenges faced by the private sector.

Elite Travel Group was proud to participate in this important event, represented by our managing director, Elvis Kotherja.

Advocating for Standards in Tourism

Elvis Kotherja emphasized the critical need for the Albanian government to address and uphold global tourism standards. He highlighted that by aligning national strategies with these standards, Albania could ensure quality, accountability, and competitiveness on the global stage. Standards not only provide a roadmap for growth but also serve as a foundation for businesses to implement sustainable practices effectively. Elvis acknowledged the ongoing process of pursuing standards from the Albanian government.

Empowering the Youth

In his address, Elvis spoke about the role of youth orientation in tourism development. He underlined the importance of investing in the new generation, not just as the future workforce but as changemakers who can drive innovation and sustainability in the tourism industry.
He also empathized the necessity of treating the youth and new professionals with respect, dignity, and fairness. Creating opportunities for young people to thrive, whether through education, employment, or entrepreneurship, is key to a sustainable tourism sector.

The Role of Sustainability

Sustainability was another cornerstone of Elvis Kotherja’s message. The managing director of ETG, reiterated that tourism in Albania must prioritize preserving the country’s unique landscapes and cultural heritage while creating meaningful experiences for travelers. Sustainable tourism is not just a trend—it is a responsibility that ensures the longevity and quality of Albania’s tourism offering for generations to come.

Collaborative Highlights

The conference also celebrated the progress of Albania’s first cohort of GSTC-Certified Auditors, showcasing efforts to enhance the country’s commitment to sustainable practices. Special recognition was given to UCSL’s Balkans Team Leader, Madlina Puka Özgür, for her active participation and leadership in this dynamic region.

Other distinguished participants included Ruth Huber, Cordula Wohlmuther, Luis Elizondo, Ilva Gjuzi, Sondor Travel, Urs Wagenseil, Siniša, Muedini Edlira, and representatives from GIZ Albania. Their contributions to the discussions added depth and valuable perspectives on the importance of balancing rapid growth with environmental preservation and cultural integrity.

A Shared Responsibility

Throughout the day, the panel discussions, including “Achieving Certification through a GSTC-Accredited Certification Body,” led by GSTC CEO Randy Durband, emphasized Albania’s potential to set an example in sustainable tourism. The Ministry of Tourism and Environment, under the leadership of Minister  Mirela Kumbaro, reaffirmed its commitment through the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GSTC, signaling a united effort to elevate Albania as a responsible tourism destination.

Gratitude and Hope

The conference was organized with the support of key partners, including the Ministry of Tourism & Environment, GSTC, RisiAlbania, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, and Partners Albania for Change and Development. Their collaboration and dedication to sustainability efforts left participants optimistic about Albania’s strides in responsible tourism.

At Elite Travel Group, we believe in working together to foster a tourism sector that celebrates natural wonders, preserves cultural heritage, and creates opportunities for all. The conference was a testament to the power of collective effort, and we look forward to contributing further to these shared goals.

Elite Travel Group
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