Water from Syri i Kaltër in Italy, Rama: A big project that requires investment, we will have a meeting in Rome

 Edi Rama escorting Giorgia Meloni after the latter's visit to Albania

 During an interview with Euronews Albania, Prime Minister Edi Rama addressed the question regarding the potential agreement between Albania and Italy concerning water supply.

Rama mentioned that the concept of transporting water from southern Albania to Italy is not a new concept; it has its origins dating back to World War II. However, as of now, no formal agreement has been established.

"There is no concrete project in place; these are all concepts. The notion of water transportation has been present since before World War II and has been advocated by various Italian governments. Yet, no tangible progress has been achieved. The realization of this significant project rests upon the Italian government's willingness, as it is a substantial endeavor beyond Albania's capacity. We are anticipating a second session of the joint investment committee in Rome, which will potentially shed light on the project's future prospects," Rama commented.

 Screenshot of Google map showing the distance from Syri i Kaltër to Apulia

We note that the construction of a water supply project to transport water from Albania to Puglia has been a topic of discussion during the vacation in Vlorë between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and an invitation from Prime Minister Edi Rama.

During a media conference, the head of the government hinted that the idea has not been abandoned, but rather, substantial funding is required, thus necessitating investment from the Italian side.

"It depends on the willingness of the Italian government, as it's a substantial project that Albania alone cannot undertake.

These matters have been discussed in the past as well, but when engaging with a new Italian prime minister, they need to be revisited. Most likely, there will be a second meeting of the investment committee in Rome to assess its progress," stated Rama.

Rama also unveiled some details ahead of the Berlin Summit scheduled for October in Tirana.

"In October, we have the Berlin Summit, where Meloni will be in attendance. There will be two to three ministerial-level meetings with all the countries participating in the summit. We will see how it unfolds," Rama added.