Albania’s Minister of Tourism and Environment, Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi, met with her Bulgarian counterpart, Evtim Miloshev, to sign a joint action plan aimed at strengthening tourism cooperation between the two countries. The agreement comes as both nations seek to enhance their regional tourism projects.
During the meeting, the ministers exchanged experiences and discussed opportunities for collaboration, with a particular focus on restoring a direct airline route between Tirana and Sofia. Minister Kumbaro said that creating joint itineraries would benefit both nations by attracting tourists from distant markets.
“It is essential to open our markets and develop common tourist maps,” Kumbaro stated. “This initiative is not only in the interest of our countries but also benefits neighboring regions by creating shared travel routes.”
Minister Miloshev commended Albania’s tourism performance, which he noted is validated by the World Tourism Organization’s barometer. He expressed optimism about the potential for added value through cooperation, underscoring the importance of tourism as a diplomatic tool.
“I am very pleased that we signed this document today,” Miloshev remarked. “This political act elevates our relations in tourism, demonstrating the long-standing friendship between Bulgaria and Albania.”
The joint plan also aims to improve information sharing and promote sustainable tourism practices, reflecting a commitment to long-term growth in the sector. According to Albanian authorities, approximately 57,000 visitors from Bulgaria traveled to Albania between January and September 2024.
This collaboration positions both countries as potential leaders in tourism within the Balkans, as they work together to foster economic development through travel.
