Around 15 million euros will be allocated for the implementation of the Albania-Kosovo Cross-Border Cooperation Program for the years 2021-2027.
Out of the total investment value, 9.7 million euros will be financed through the budgets of both states, while 8.4 million euros will be the EU’s contribution under the IPA III program.
The implementation of this program, according to the agreement approved in early February, aims to promote good neighborly relations and economic development in border areas through sustainable tourism.
45% of IPA III funds will be allocated for environmental protection. The program also foresees investments in environmental adaptation to climate change and risk prevention and management.
Approximately 45% of the funds will be allocated to promoting tourism and cultural heritage, including mobilizing local actors and supporting new products and services in tourism and cultural heritage.
In Albania, the benefiting areas of the program will include the Kukës region, encompassing municipalities such as Kukës, Has, and Tropojë, and the Lezhë region, including municipalities such as Lezhë, Mirditë, and Kurbin.
In Kosovo, the benefiting areas of the program will be the Southern Economic Region, with municipalities such as Prizren, Gjakova, Rahovec, Suharekë, Malishevo, and Mamusha.
Beneficiaries will also include the six municipalities of the Western Economic Region, such as Peja, Deçan, Gjakova, Istog, Klinë, and Junik.
Priority in tourism promotion will focus on nature and traditional folklore. Cultural heritage promotion will also include the promotion of religious sites in addition to historical ones. Tourism promotion in border areas will also be developed through eco-farming and agribusinesses, as well as tourism service providers.
The progress in achieving objectives will be measured by creating new job positions and businesses.
Through program implementation, it is anticipated that the number of new businesses in border areas will increase by 100% by 2030 compared to 2021, and the number of new job positions will increase by 50% compared to 2021.
