Week in Review: Surprises in Store

Our selection of Balkan Insight Premium stories this week brings some surprises – some good, some less so – while continuing to look back on 20 years of BIRN.

Original post Here

News
UAE President’s Surprise Visit to Albania Underscores Strategic Diplomacy Beyond Friendship

TIRANA, Albania — July 17, 2025 Tirana Times.   In  a rare and tightly scheduled diplomatic mission, United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan made an unannounced visit to Albania on the evening of July 16, marking his second trip to the Balkan country in less than …

News
Week in Review: Opportunities and Setbacks

This week’s Balkan Insight Premium stories reflect the region’s ongoing push-and-pull between hopes of peace and the bitter weight of history. Original post Here

News
Albanian Prosecution Accuses Former Ruling Party MP of Organised Crime Ties

Special prosecutors conclude investigation into Jurgis Cyrbja, accusing the former Socialist MP of sharing state information with organised crime group members in exchange for their support in elections. Original post Here