Tirana, represented by Mayor Erion Veliaj, participated in a high-profile UN panel on Sustainable Urban Development in New York, coordinated by the mayors of Paris and Rio de Janeiro. The panel aims to develop innovative mechanisms and policy reforms to increase cities’ access to sustainable financing.

Why is this important: Tirana’s inclusion on the panel is a significant recognition of its urban transformation efforts. The city has implemented several green initiatives, including tree planting, bike lanes, and pedestrian spaces, contributing to a healthier environment and increased tourism.

Details: Veliaj highlighted Tirana’s ongoing commitment to sustainability through projects like tree planting and expanding bike lanes and pedestrian areas. “It’s a privilege and a reward for the work that has transformed Tirana,” Veliaj stated, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives for the city’s development.

Veliaj acknowledged the global recognition Tirana has received for its sustainable efforts, including its inclusion among the top 10 greenest European capitals by the European Environment Agency. He noted that Tirana’s efforts, such as the transformations of Skanderbeg Square, the New Bazaar, Farka Lake, and the Tirana Lake, have significantly improved air quality and boosted tourism.

New Projects Announced: The Mayor also announced three new projects in collaboration with the Albanian-American Development Foundation. These initiatives include creating new trails linking Tirana’s major parks, which align with the city’s vision of enhancing its green spaces and urban mobility. Additionally, two new partnerships will be launched in October, focusing on digital education services for youth, following the success of the TUMO Center at the Pyramid.

The mayor reiterated Tirana’s ambition to continue using its model of sustainable development to attract further investments and tourists. “We will continue to use Tirana’s example to draw more investments, more tourists, and ensure that our success stories multiply,” Veliaj said.

Looking Ahead: Veliaj is optimistic about Tirana’s future, envisioning the city as a hub for culture, tourism, and digital knowledge, particularly as it prepares to become the Mediterranean City of Culture next year. “I strongly believe Tirana will stand out as a green city, a city of tourism, and a city with digital knowledge for the jobs of the future,” Veliaj emphasized.

Conclusion: Tirana’s participation in the UN panel reflects its growing status as a leader in sustainable urban development, showcasing its innovative approaches to creating a greener, more livable city.