CIHEAM Zaragoza, the Embassy of Spain in Albania, Albania’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the Agricultural University of Tirana are joining forces to organise the international conference “Albania Water 2030 – Modernising Water Management and Irrigation Systems for a Resilient Albania”, which will take place on 3 November 2026 in Durrës, Albania.
Water security, sustainable water management and the efficient use of water resources are increasingly critical challenges for Europe, particularly in the Mediterranean. Climate change, growing water demand, prolonged droughts, floods and pressure on water resources call for new approaches to water management and sustainable agricultural production. In Albania, these challenges are also closely linked to the country’s European integration process.
The conference will provide a high-level international platform for Albanian institutions and European experts to exchange knowledge and experience, drawing in particular on Spain’s expertise in water management and irrigation modernisation, as well as experience from other European countries. The discussions will address water security, climate resilience, irrigation systems, integrated water resources management and alignment with EU water standards.
The programme is divided into four sessions:
- Session I: Water Security and Climate Resilience on Albania’s Path to the EU
- Session II: Modernising Irrigation Systems from Infrastructure Rehabilitation to Digital Transformation
- Session III: Integrated Water Resources Management to Safeguard Water Quality and Availability
Session IV: High-Level Policy Panel. Albania Water 2030: Priorities, Investments and the Path towards EU Water Standards
Advancing scientific diplomacy through water cooperation
The initiative reflects CIHEAM Zaragoza’s commitment to scientific diplomacy, connecting scientific knowledge, institutional cooperation and policy dialogue to address shared challenges. Through its education, research, and international cooperation activities, the Institute strengthening knowledge exchange and partnerships that support sustainable development across the Mediterranean.
By bringing together Spanish, European and Albanian stakeholders, the international conference will contribute to strengthening institutional links and enhancing cooperation on water security, climate resilience and the sustainable management of water resources.
- Date: 3 November 2026 at 09:00 h
- Venue: Grand Blue Fafa, Shkëmbi i Kavajës, Durrës, Albania
- Admission: The conference welcomes professionals, specialists, policymakers, academics and all stakeholders of the wider water community interested in sustainable water management