Diaspora Summit, Minister Gonxhja Culture and Tourism Pillars of Development and Global Presence Through Cooperation with Albanian Communities

Albania is strengthening its cooperation with the Albanian diaspora by placing it at the center of the country’s economic, cultural, and diplomatic development through a new, more structured, and inclusive approach. During the 4th Diaspora Summit, at the panel “National Identity and Cultural Centers, Institutionalizing Cultural Diplomacy: CulturAlb and the New Network of Cultural Centers,” the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports, Blendi Gonxhja, emphasized that relations with the diaspora are shifting from symbolic ties to a concrete partnership focused on investment, decision-making, and national projects.
Gonxhja emphasized that, in this context, culture and tourism are consolidating as intertwined pillars of development and public diplomacy. He stated that cultural diplomacy is now one of the key instruments of public policy and a core pillar of the National Strategy for Culture 2026–2030. This strategy positions culture as a cross-sectoral factor with a direct impact on the economy, international image, and tourism.
The minister focused on tourism development and highlighted that Albania welcomes over 12 million visitors annually, which consolidates its position as a growing global destination. This trend has fueled entrepreneurship in the hospitality and service industries, as well as experiential tourism, creating new jobs and bolstering local economies.
Gonxhja also emphasized the increasing influence of the Albanian diaspora in this process, citing their contributions through investments, knowledge and experience sharing, and the adoption of new management and innovation standards. The diaspora is contributing directly to improving the quality of entrepreneurship and building a more sustainable, competitive development model.
To increase its international presence, Albania has implemented initiatives to promote cultural globalization, such as the “CulturAlb — Albanian Cultural Days in the World” program. This program has showcased Albanian artists and cultural events on international stages, thereby strengthening the country’s cultural visibility.
Participation in international fairs, such as ITB Berlin and FITUR, has increased Albania’s presence in global markets. These fairs promote the country as more than just a tourist destination; they showcase it as an integrated cultural and historical experience.
Another strategic initiative is establishing Albanian cultural centers abroad in collaboration with the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. These centers promote the Albanian language, arts, and traditions and serve as reference points for Albanian communities and international cultural cooperation.
Domestically, the minister highlighted programs for developing cultural heritage, including the Northern Albania Towers Program. This program aims to restore and revitalize traditional tower houses and transform them into cultural centers and community museums. These sites will become part of the mountain and cultural tourism offerings.
In conclusion, Gonxhja emphasized that the diaspora is a vital part of this process, contributing not only to maintaining ties with the country of origin but also bringing new development models, partnerships, and innovative ideas that can enhance the competitiveness of the Albanian economy.