Albanian PM slams opposition over budget debate
Prime Minister Edi Rama fiercely criticized the opposition while presenting figures for the 2025 budget, referring to them as “remnants of a time that will never return.” Rama highlighted substantial investments in social protection and agriculture, asserting the government’s achievements compared to past administrations.
Key points:
- Social protection spending: Rama emphasized a dramatic increase in social protection funding. “From 122 billion lekë when we began our journey, to 238 billion lekë this year, and 248 billion lekë in the 2025 budget. Including the spring bonus, we are well over double the previous amount,” he stated.
- Tourism and revenue: He underscored tourism’s economic impact, noting how the sector has generated unprecedented income for citizens and higher state revenue.
- Agriculture investment: Rama pointed out a fivefold increase in agricultural funding. “In 2025, 146 million euros are allocated for agriculture, compared to just 38 million euros under them,” he said, adding that over 500 projects have been funded with European resources, a stark contrast to the near-zero absorption rate during the opposition’s governance.
Harsh warning to opposition: Rama concluded with a severe admonition: “Gather your senses because you fared poorly this time and will fare even worse next time. The upcoming spring will deliver a judgment in our favor, the best in history for the Socialist Party and the most deserved for these remnants of a bygone era.”
Rama’s statements are part of the ongoing debate over the largest budget in Albania’s history, which the opposition claims fails to address the needs of ordinary citizens.
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