Monday Briefing from the Balkans: July 13, 2026
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
Letter from Brussels: No EU ‘Super Tuesday’ for Accession Laggard Serbia
As Albania and Montenegro surge ahead, the EU is split on whether to move Serbia forward on the path to accession in the absence of tangible progress. Original post Here
Gulf News names Gjirokastër among the world’s most spectacular summer destinations
TIRANA, July 13 – Gjirokastër has been included among the world’s 10 most spectacular and unusual destinations to visit this summer, according to a selection published by Gulf News. The UAE-based media outlet highlighted the historic Albanian city as one of Europe’s hidden gems. It praised Gjirokastër for its cultural …
PM Rama attends Paris summit on support for Ukraine
TIRANA, July 13 – Prime Minister Edi Rama is travelling to Paris today to attend the Coalition of the Willing summit on Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron invited Rama to the meeting, which will bring together heads of state and government. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and NATO Secretary General Mark …
Vjosa River attracts more tourists with summer rafting adventures
TIRANA, July 13 – The Vjosa River has become one of the most popular summer destinations for visitors seeking adventure and cooler temperatures. High summer temperatures have increased interest in the river’s wild landscapes, untouched nature and outdoor activities. Local and foreign tourists visit Vjosa not only to relax but …
Uçkave public beach in Pogradec attracts summer visitors
The Uçkave public beach, one of the most historic and popular areas along Lake Ohrid’s shoreline, is welcoming a growing number of local and international visitors this summer. Located between the Vila area and Tushemisht, the beach offers organized spaces, free umbrellas, clean waters and improved infrastructure for holidaymakers. Moreover, …
Albania joins EUROGYM 2026 as leaders strengthen gymnastics cooperation
TIRANA, July 13 – Albania took part in EUROGYM 2026, Europe’s largest gymnastics festival for young people, held in Pistoia, Italy. More than 7,000 participants from across Europe attended the event. The President of the Albanian National Olympic Committee, Fidel Ylli, attended the festival at the invitation of Italian Gymnastics …
Over 1,000 apply for Grant 2026 as startup interest grows across Albania
TIRANA, July 13 – More than 1,000 entrepreneurs and innovators have applied for the Grant 2026 programme, showing growing interest in startups across Albania, according to the Agency for Media and Information. The agency said the applications reflect stronger engagement from young innovators and entrepreneurs who want to turn business …
Himara attracts more tourists as public beaches expand and services improve
Himara is seeing a significant increase in visitors this summer, strengthening its position as one of Albania’s most popular tourist destinations. The municipality has introduced new measures to improve services, expand public beach areas, increase accessibility and support sustainable tourism development. Himara Mayor Vangjel Tavo said the city is managing …
Lezhë provides tourist contact numbers and beach prices to prevent abuses
Lezhë Municipality has introduced a new measure to support visitors during the summer season by providing direct contact numbers for reporting concerns related to services, prices and public beach areas. Meanwhile, Mayor Pjerin Ndreu encouraged tourists and residents to report any cases of unfair pricing, poor services or violations of …