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Osman Taka Dance Added to Albania’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List

The Osman Taka Dance has been included in Albania’s National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. The announcement was made by Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Blendi Gonxhja, while Prime Minister Edi Rama also commented on the decision, describing the dance as one of the expressions of Cham identity and tradition. …

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European Commissioner After Meeting with Rama: Albania Belongs in the EU, Maintain the Pace of Reforms

European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection, Michael McGrath, has stated that Albania is one of the frontrunners in the European Union accession process. In a social media post following his meeting with Prime Minister Edi Rama, McGrath stressed that Albania “belongs in the EU”, …

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Kosovo’s New President Ends Political Deadlock, Opens a New Chapter

The election of respected academic Justina Shiroka-Pula averts another political crisis and highlights Kosovo’s tradition of female leadership and religious coexistence, while offering new prospects for political stability and international engagement. Tirana Times, October 08, 2026  — The election of Justina Shiroka-Pula as Kosovo’s new president has brought an end …

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OSCE ambassador and justice inspector discuss stronger judicial accountability

OSCE Presence in Albania Ambassador Michel Tarran met High Inspector of Justice Artur Metani to discuss recent developments in the judicial system and issues related to the inspector’s mandate. According to the OSCE Presence, the talks focused on the role of the High Inspector of Justice in ensuring accountability in …

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Albania inflation rises to 2.9% in September, driven by transport and food

Albania’s annual inflation rate rose to 2.9% in September 2026, up from 2.4% in the same month last year. Consumer prices also increased by 0.4% from August. According to Consumer Price Index data published on October 8, food and non-alcoholic beverages made the largest contribution to annual inflation. They accounted …

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‘Wonders of Arbëria’ brings Albanian tradition to opera stage

“Wonders of Arbëria” returns to the stage of Albania’s National Theatre of Opera, Ballet and Folk Ensemble. The performance features the National Ensemble of Folk Songs and Dances in cooperation with the ‘Gurra e Kurbinit’ ensemble. Arbëria is the historical name used for Albania during the Middle Ages. The show …

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German electronic music artist Sam Shure, Albanian artists bring Berlin energy to Tirana

German Cultural Week 2026 brought music, contemporary art, exhibitions, traditions and German gastronomy to Tirana from October 2 to 6. The five-day programme offered audiences in the Albanian capital opportunities to experience different aspects of German culture. The activities also created spaces for cultural exchange between the two countries. Meanwhile, …

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Health minister Spahiu in Kurbin calls for stronger coordination between primary and hospital care

Health and Social Welfare Minister Klodiana Spahiu visited the Laç Health Centre in Kurbin. She called for stronger coordination between primary healthcare and hospital services to provide faster care closer to residents. Spahiu said better coordination between health structures would improve patient referrals. She also stressed the importance of direct …

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Ten winners announced in Tish Daija Music Creativity Competition

The National Theatre of Opera, Ballet and Folk Ensemble announced the 10 winners of the Tish Daija Music Creativity Competition in the “Chamber Music” and “A Cappella Choir” categories. The competition marks the 100th anniversary of composer Tish Daija’s birth. With support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports, …

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Justice minister Toni Gogu, EU commissioner Michael McGrath discuss reform and integration

Justice Minister Toni Gogu met European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath to discuss justice reform and Albania’s path towards European Union membership. The talks focused on strengthening the rule of law and consolidating Albania’s justice reform. Gogu said they also discussed the …