Luxury Resort on Adriatic Coast Divides Nation: PM Slams Trump 'Haters' Amidst Flamingo Revolution Protests

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has strongly defended a planned luxury resort project involving Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump, dismissing widespread protests as a politically motivated campaign by critics of Trump. The project, slated for the island of Sazan and the Zvërnec coast near Vlore, has sparked public outcry and demonstrations dubbed the "flamingo revolution." Protesters highlight that the resort is planned for an area vital to flamingos, over 200 species of migratory birds, Mediterranean monk seals, and sea turtles. Civil society and environmental organizations warn that the development will severely threaten this delicate ecosystem. In an interview with Politico, Rama asserted that attracting foreign investment is essential for developing Albanian tourism. "If it weren't for Jared, they wouldn't care what was happening in Albania," Rama stated, suggesting Kushner's involvement brought attention to the country. He accused "Trump haters" of amplifying the protests, while describing the project itself as noble. The resort, backed by Kushner, Qatari investors, and local partners, plans to build up to 10,000 hotel rooms and villas. The project is situated in a former protected area, with legal changes in 2024 enabling such development. Environmental impact assessments for the resort have not been completed. Rama emphasized that foreign investors are a priority because "foreigners bring money into the country for Albanians." He also pointed to Albania's GDP tripling since he became prime minister in 2013. Rama denied recent contact with Kushner and stated that other investors, including Qatar's Power Holding, are involved. He dismissed claims about Kushner and his wife Ivanka Trump having direct involvement as "fake and fabricated." The Prime Minister also accused Iran of engaging in a "hybrid war" of disinformation, including conspiracy theories about relocating Palestinians from Gaza. Protesters, however, maintain that antisemitic incidents do not represent the entire movement. Despite the criticism, Rama expressed confidence that environmental issues would not derail Albania's EU membership ambitions by 2030, quipping that European leaders could witness flamingos and development coexisting beautifully.

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If it weren't for Jared, they wouldn't care what was happening in Albania.