The Minister of Energy, Belinda Balluku, has confirmed today from the floor of the Assembly that the European Union has canceled a grant of 28 million euros that was made available by the Investment Fund for the Western Balkans, in order to reconstruct Piers 1 & 2, in the Western Terminal of the Port.
But, speaking from the floor of the Assembly, Balluku said that she herself requested the cancellation of this grant, as according to her, things have changed and according to her there are new strategies for Durrës.
"I have requested the cancellation of the EU loan in writing in 2019. I have requested its cancellation. 28 million euros were required to obtain a loan to increase the capacities of "General Cargo", i.e. to introduce more coal and wheat in the Port of Durres. We sat down with the EU at the table and discussed it. We cannot get loans because things have changed. There are new strategies for Albania and Durres." said Balluk.
However, the cancellation of the grant of 28 million euros was announced by the office of the Delegation of the European Union in Tirana, which openly expresses reservations about the modification of the project and the lack of transparency from the Albanian government. In addition, the EU Office in Tirana announced that the yacht marina project is being put under EU supervision as it may conflict with the Stabilization and Association Agreement.