Albania PM says environmental science will decide fate of Kushner resort

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama stated that the future of a proposed luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump will be determined by environmental impact studies rather than "streets and ideology." The project, located in the protected Zvërnec area of southwestern Albania, has triggered significant public opposition and protests in Tirana, with some demonstrators calling for Rama's resignation.

Speaking at the Travel and Tourism Summit 2026 in Brussels, Rama defended the investment as a necessary step to boost the nation's economy, increase salaries, and improve services. He noted that Albania is transitioning from being a formerly isolated nation to a growing high-end tourism destination.

As Albania seeks membership in the European Union, the project faces scrutiny regarding its compliance with EU environmental standards. The Albanian government has assured the European Commission that the development will adhere to these legal frameworks, which is a critical requirement for the country's accession process.