EU 'scolds' Rama for Zvërnec: Protect nature before you destroy it

As protests against projects in Zvërnec and Sazan have entered their ninth day, with participation increasing day by day, the European Union Delegation to Albania has published a message emphasizing the protection of nature and natural habitats.

The reaction comes at a time when Prime Minister Edi Rama has declared that he will not withdraw from the planned projects, while protesters are demanding their cancellation, considering them a threat to the country's natural resources.

In its message, the EU Delegation raises concern about the decline in the number of birds in the world and the consequences of the loss of natural habitats. According to the EU, over 49% of bird species are in decline due to pollution and the destruction of ecosystems.

"Protect natural habitats, before the sky is left without bird songs. Protect nature, while you still have time," reads the message from the EU Delegation, which is being interpreted as an appeal for environmental protection at a time when the debate over the projects in Zvërnec and Sazan has intensified.

"A bird song is more than a sound, it is a sign of a living, breathing nature."

Over 49% of the world's bird species are in decline, a clear signal that the balance of ecosystems is being tested.

Birds are essential to nature: they disperse seeds, control insects, and help ecosystems function healthily.

But habitat loss and pollution are pushing many species towards extinction, making nature more silent every day.

Protect natural habitats, before the sky is left without birdsong. Protect nature, while you still have time.”

A day ago, the prestigious media outlet Politico reported a European Union position that the Zvërnec project and environmental damage could have a negative impact on Albania's EU negotiations.

According to Politico, “The European Commission has warned Albania against actions that could affect its path to EU membership, amid ongoing national protests over a project on the country’s southern coast. The nationwide protests entered their eighth day on Sunday, as Albanians demanded the cancellation of a luxury resort in Zvërnec.

The Commission is warning that the project could put Albania on a collision course with EU environmental rules, jeopardizing its ability to close the green Chapter 27 in accession talks.