Prime Minister Edi Rama has delivered a direct message to the protesters gathered on Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard, just a few meters away from Italy Square, where the Socialist Party is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its founding.
Aware that the protest was taking place simultaneously with the Socialist Party’s event, Rama invited citizens to review what he described as the state administration’s “commendable mediation process” regarding the Sazan and Zvërnec projects.
While expressing his willingness to engage in discussions—but not negotiations—with protesters, the Prime Minister and Socialist Party leader sent a clear message to the crowd:
“I have no negotiations to make with you, because I do not negotiate the program with those who voted for me.”
Speaking during the Socialist Party’s 35th anniversary celebration, Rama said:
“Come and verify the facts for yourselves. Look at the evidence and feel reassured and proud of how our institutions have handled the processes concerning Sazan and Zvërnec. Come and see with your own eyes that there is no strategic investor status. Come and hear with your own ears that there is still no agreement for Sazan, only prolonged negotiations.
These negotiations are taking time because we do not represent the interests of investors, no matter how good friends of Albania they may be.
We have made it clear at the negotiating table that the island is not for sale and will not be leased. The island remains the property of the Albanian state. At the same time, the state seeks to participate as a partner in any investment and secure a share of the profits for the Albanian people.”
Rama reiterated:
“I have no negotiations to make with you, because I do not negotiate the program with those who voted for me.”
Addressing environmental concerns, he added that he remains available at any time to discuss how Albania can balance environmental protection with tourism development.
“As for the future of development in Zvërnec, it will be determined solely by the quality of the project and the ambition of the investors,” Rama stated.
He also warned protesters against what he described as political opportunists:
“Stay away from the hyenas circling around you, because you will be the first to drown in the saliva of those seeking power while hiding behind traditional caps and flags.”
Concluding his remarks, Rama invited environmentally minded citizens to work with the Socialist Party, arguing that the movement had evolved beyond its original environmental focus.
“I am very clear that a protest that began in defense of nature has now become a political protest. That is absolutely legitimate for anyone who wants to change their future,” he said.
