The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) has called for the suspension of both the construction and operation of Vlora International Airport until the necessary environmental studies are conducted.

The Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) has called for the suspension of both the construction and operation of Vlora International Airport until the necessary environmental studies are conducted.

In an official communication to the Albanian government, the Convention’s Standing Committee requested comprehensive and in-depth assessments of the project, including the potential restoration of the affected habitat to its original condition, depending on the outcomes of these studies.

This joint position was issued following discussions between the European Union and its member states during the CMS Standing Committee meeting in Brazil.

These recommendations come despite continued efforts by national authorities to present the airport as a fait accompli, often misrepresenting the actual progress of the project.

To date, the Albanian government has not taken concrete steps to meet these requirements, which are essential not only for the protection of biodiversity but also for ensuring passenger safety.

Furthermore, despite consistently strong positions expressed within international convention forums, representatives of the European Union and its member states in Albania have yet to publicly address the construction of Vlora Airport within a protected area.

Read the full letter here: https://ppnea.org/convention-on-the-conservation-of-migratory-species-of-wild-animals/?lang=en