German firm withdraws from Albanian airport project over environmental concerns
German company Flughafen München GmbH (FMG) and its subsidiary Munich Airport International have officially withdrawn from their role as consultants in the construction and operation of Vlora International Airport, a strategic infrastructure project backed by the Albanian government. The decision was announced on April 8, 2025, during a session of the Munich City Council.
Why this is important: This marks the first time that environmental concerns — focusing on the protection of the endangered Dalmatian pelican — have succeeded in pushing a major European player out of the project. While civil society protests and legal appeals had failed, the move followed a petition signed by nearly 600 citizens, and growing political pressure within Germany, particularly from the Green Party.
Context: The Dalmatian pelican, with its white wings and curly crest, is a symbol of the Narta Lagoon, a protected area near the airport construction site and one of Europe’s most sensitive bird habitats. Environmentalists have long argued that the project threatens the survival of the species, which is considered vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
According to official council documents, FMG stated that it had no role in selecting the airport location or overseeing its construction. Still, the Green Party welcomed the company’s exit, urging Munich Airport to uphold its commitment to environmental sustainability goals.
What else: The Albanian Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy told TV Klan that the withdrawal will not affect the continuation or timeline of the airport project. The construction is being carried out by a private concessionaire, and the majority of work has already been completed. The airport is still scheduled to open in 2026.
The government views the Vlora airport as a key driver of tourism and economic growth in southern Albania. Despite ongoing opposition from environmental groups, it remains one of the country’s flagship infrastructure projects.
Notably, the Dalmatian pelican had previously caused delays to other infrastructure works in the region — including the Levan–Vlora highway — but ultimately did not prevent construction.
Go deeper
Rama and Berisha both claim victory ahead of May 11 elections
Published on April 17, 2025
Why is this important: A wave of pre-election polls has projected a clear lead for the ruling Socialist Party (SP), showing it in position to form a government without needing a coalition. But Berisha and his allies dismiss the findings as manipulated, insisting that internal polling favors the opposition. The dispute over numbers sets the stage for a campaign increasingly defined by competing claims of momentum and legitimacy.
Albania blocks 105 cyberattacks in two years as government pushes ahead with AI-powered governance
Published on April 17, 2025
Why is this important: The country’s digital infrastructure has faced serious threats in recent years — including a major state-sponsored cyberattack in 2023 traced back to Iran. Albania had cut diplomatic ties with Tehran following repeated attacks, a consequence of hosting Iranian opposition group MEK in its territory.
Euronews Albania survey: Edi Rama’s Socialists seen as clear favorites ahead of May 11
Published on April 17, 2025
Why is this important: The data shows a consistent wide gap between the ruling party and its challengers — not only in projected votes but also in public confidence. With just weeks to go, there’s little evidence of momentum on the opposition side, while undecided voters remain sizable.