At the prestigious BIG Event in Paris, organized by BPI France (Public Investment Bank), Albania was in the spotlight as Sokol Duma, Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, presented a bold vision for the future of Albania’s economy. Addressing key topics related to innovation and the creative economy in Europe, Duma emphasized the transformative power of technology and culture as drivers of economic growth and tourism in Albania.
Albania’s Vision for Culture and Innovation
During the MasterClass titled “The Interconnection of Culture and Innovation in Albania”, Duma shared his vision of an Albania where culture and technology collaborate to stimulate economic development. He highlighted the significant potential of the creative industry in the country, which has the capacity to generate between €600 million and €700 million in revenue annually and create 70,000 to 80,000 jobs.
Duma’s speech underscored the importance of innovation, particularly in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), as well as the need for improvements in digital and energy infrastructure. These developments are essential to unlocking the potential of Albania’s creative sector, positioning the country as a rising player in Europe’s innovation ecosystem.
Technological and Cultural Synergy
Drawing parallels with revolutionary inventions like the printing press and television, Duma noted that technological innovation, when combined with cultural advancement, has the potential to bring about transformative changes in the economy. He stressed that Albania is committed to leveraging this synergy to boost its creative industries, which play a critical role in the country’s sustainable economic growth.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism
Duma also emphasized the government’s commitment to connecting technological and cultural innovations to the development of sustainable tourism. By promoting Albania’s unique natural and cultural destinations, the country seeks to enhance its appeal as a tourist destination, while also fostering economic growth and job creation.
A Path Forward for Albania
With its rich cultural heritage and growing innovation sector, Albania is positioning itself as a leader in the creative economy. Events like the BIG Event Paris offer a global platform to showcase the country’s commitment to driving innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting sustainable tourism as key pillars of its economic strategy.
Sokol Duma’s participation in the event reaffirms Albania’s dedication to embracing cultural and technological collaboration, with the goal of building a more innovative and prosperous future.
