The Government of Albania has declared the Vjosa river, which is the last wild river in Europe, a National Park.

This decision was taken during the meeting of the Albanian executive on March 13 and was made public by the Minister of Environment, Mirela Kumbaro.

“The National Park declaration is the second category of protection that is much higher than what it had a year ago as a Natural Park. We have extended this protection surface to 12,727 hectares, which is the entire water surface, the river bank, together with the land surface and the three branches of the river Vjosë, Drino, Bënçe, Shushicë, do what is necessary, what is today the first park of a river wild in Europe”, said Kumbaro.

The declaration of the Vjosa River National Park means that no construction that affects the river will be allowed, including the hydropower plants that have caused a great debate in Albania, but have also brought the reaction of several international organizations. Minister Kumbaro stated that the management plan for this area will be drawn up very soon, which will specify where traditional areas, eco-tourism can be developed, and where the part of strict protection will be and no type of intervention will be allowed.