Thousands protest Albania resort project linked to Trump's son-in-law
Translated from Latvian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- Thousands protested in Albania against a luxury resort project linked to Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner.
- Protesters voiced concerns about environmental damage and potential corruption, demanding the government block the project.
- A special prosecutor has launched an investigation into the land acquisition process for the project.
Thousands of protesters gathered in Albania's capital, Tirana, to oppose a controversial luxury resort project planned for Sazan Island and the Vjosa-Narta protected coastal area. Chanting "Cancel the project!" and holding banners reading "Albania is not for sale" and "Ivanka, go home!" โ a reference to President Trump's daughter โ demonstrators urged the government to halt the development.
Cancel the project!
The project, valued at an estimated 1.4 billion euros, aims to transform Sazan Island, a former secret military base during the communist era, into a high-end tourist destination. Environmental organizations have previously raised alarms, calling for a halt to the plans in January due to threats to biodiversity.
Adding to the controversy, Albania's special anti-corruption prosecutor announced Tuesday that it has opened an investigation into the funds used for acquiring land and selling it to investors. While official confirmation is pending, reports suggest companies linked to Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, are involved in acquiring the land for the resort.
Albania is not for sale
Prime Minister Edi Rama attempted to de-escalate the situation by inviting a delegation of about 20 protesters to discuss potential solutions. However, the demonstrators rejected the offer and announced plans for further protests. The situation highlights a growing tension between development interests and environmental and anti-corruption concerns in Albania.
Ivanka, go home!
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Delfi Latvia in Latvian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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