Coastal cleanliness, Minister Vengu and Deputy Prime Minister Balluku inspect cleanup efforts in the South, supported by the Albanian Armed Forces

Published: Tuesday, 13 August 2024 12:16

 

Naval Forces personnel from the Albanian Armed Forces have been actively supporting local authorities in beach cleanup efforts throughout this summer season.

Defense Minister Pirro Vengu, along with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku, visited several beaches in the Himara and Saranda municipalities to inspect the ongoing work.

Minister Vengu emphasized the importance of closer collaboration among all maritime-related authorities for the effective management of the coastline, particularly during this summer season, which has seen a significant increase in tourists. “It’s absolutely essential that the Coast Guard, especially during the high season, coordinates closely with the Maritime Unit of the Border Police and with the municipalities. These areas, which can be difficult to access, require thorough territorial control, particularly on the most frequented beaches.” - Minister Vengu stated.

Deputy Prime Minister Balluku pointed out the urgent need for the Armed Forces' involvement to quickly resolve the situation, given the influx of tourists: “At this moment, the involvement of the military is crucial, both on land, where troops can assist the municipalities, and at sea. It’s becoming clear that after the season ends, we’ll need to thoroughly analyze the situation to learn from the increased number of visitors. Every year, new challenges seem to arise. Last year’s season ended successfully, with all issues addressed, but this year, with an unprecedented increase in visitors to Albania, we’re identifying new weaknesses that must be swiftly addressed within this season. We need to be fully prepared for next season.”  - Balluku noted.

Minister Vengu also highlighted the need for reforms in maritime administration: “The Coast Guard has all the necessary capabilities at sea, and therefore, it has the responsibility to coordinate even more effectively. One issue we’ve observed this year, which we need to address for next year, is how ports and southern coastal points manage the obligations of large vessels and yachts to declare solid and liquid waste upon arrival and departure. This practice is well-established in larger ports, and we need to find a way to implement it at smaller coastal points as well." 

During the inspection, Minister Vengu and Deputy Prime Minister Balluku also spoke with Saranda’s Mayor, Oltion Çaçi, and the forces on the ground, stressing the importance of raising awareness among citizens and tourism operators.