Transport Strategy

It predicts that by 2030, 30% of road transport, over 300 km distance, should be shifted to other modes such as rail or water transport and more than 50% by 2050. By 2050, it is intended that the majority of medium-distance passenger transport is done by rail. From an environmental point of view, EU transport policy is focused on developing an integrated multimodal transport system that is environmentally sound. The strategy is accompanied by an action plan, based on the pillars: Blue Growth, Connecting the Region (transport and energy networks), Environmental Quality and Sustainable Tourism. The achievement of the integrated tourism model combining the coastal (beaches and sun), cultural (archaeology, heritage) and natural (eco-tourism) dimensions relies mainly on an efficient network of roads that can connect every corner of the country. Some destinations are of particular importance and need quality road connections: Coastal destinations, World Heritage Sites and Eco-tourism.

Maritime tourism which has seen significant growth in recent years does not appear to be included in the MSDI and other existing maritime sector strategy documents. In this regard, it is recommended that while border strategies for increased cargo and passenger traffic remain appropriate, their underlying assumptions will need to be reworked and this should be included in the action plans necessary to achieve them. The strategic objectives for the next 5-year period are: Development and promotion of maritime tourism by developing the necessary port infrastructure, especially in Saranda, while at the same time a cross-sectoral strategy (transport, tourism and local municipalities) is being developed to attract more sailing ships (cruises) and maritime tourism to Albania.