Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama on Architecture as National Transformation Tool

Summary

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama discusses his government's focus on architecture as a tool for national transformation and cultural diplomacy. In an exclusive interview, Rama explains how Albania is becoming an unlikely hub for statement architecture with major projects by international studios like MVRDV, BIG, and Bofill Taller de Arquitectura. He emphasizes that architecture festivals are more important than political summits for building international relationships and creating 'love stories between architects and Albania.' The prime minister views architecture as a means to change perceptions of Albania, attract tourism, and foster cultural exchange, positioning the country as a destination for architectural innovation rather than just a political entity.