Austrian investment in Albania to include ski resort

TIRANA, May.8- In a meeting with representatives of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce in Albania, Prime Minister Berisha praised their interest and offered guarantees that his administration will provide all necessary assistance, especially in the sectors of infrastructure and tourism. A series of agreements have been signed between the two countries that enhance this economic relationship. Berisha has addressed the possibility of a new airport in the town of Saranda, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the south. The location for the airport is ready and the construction of the landing strip has started. Berisha anticipates it will take one year to complete the airport.
The Austrians have committed to establishing an office in Tirana that will coordinate the operations of Austrian investors. The Austrian investors have presented their proposals with a special focus on the potential of the Alpine regions in Albania and winter tourism.
The Austrian consortium “STRABAG SE” is responsible for an important investment in Dardha of Korca, where a new skiing facility (length 1.4 km, width 40 meters and 29 degree angle of the slope) as well as an air transport hub to serve the needs of winter tourists will begin operating this winter season. Albanian ski fans will have a chance to experiment with the first skiing facility in the country, which is expected to be fully operational in the winter of this year.
“STRABAG SE will cover the entire sum of the investment. Representatives of the company had visited the resort zone in September of 2006. The project has been supported by the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Tourism. Construction is expected to finish in October. During this time the Albanian government and, more specifically the local authorities of Korca, have committed to offer all necessary assistance to the Austrian investors.