News

President Begaj urges caution over fires, thanks firefighters

TIRANA, August 13 – President Bajram Begaj urged citizens to remain cautious as high temperatures increase the risk of fires. He also expressed solidarity with firefighters and others fighting the flames. Begaj said firefighters, Armed Forces personnel and others fighting fires deserve public gratitude. He praised their courage and sacrifice …

News

Fire situation improves in Priska, Tirana

TIRANA, August 13 – The fire situation in Priska has improved after firefighters and 2 helicopters worked to contain 3 fires that started on Wednesday evening. The fires emerged in Daias village, between Lundra and Priska. Ground and aerial operations helped stop the flames from spreading. Authorities continue to monitor …

News

Armed Forces support firefighting operation in Kruja

TIRANA, August 13 – The Armed Forces are supporting firefighting operations in Abaze neighbourhood in Kruja. Their teams are helping protect residents and property. Defence Minister Ermal Nufi said the personnel are working with other emergency structures to contain the flames. He said the Armed Forces remain ready to support …

News

Orikum combines seaside holidays with ancient heritage

TIRANA, August 13 – Orikum, 15 km from Vlora, is one of Albania’s attractive coastal destinations. Its natural scenery, sea and history create a distinctive landscape. Crystal-clear waters, natural resources and historical heritage attract domestic and foreign tourists during August. Many visitors choose the area each year to enjoy its …

News

A Quarter Century Since Ohrid: The Agreement That Gave North Macedonia Its Future

by Ferit Hoxha, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania Tirana Times, August 12, 2026 – There are moments in history when a country’s future is shaped by a single document. Such agreements are rare, but their impact can endure for generations. The Ohrid Framework Agreement is one such example. …

News

Lura National Park wildfire, around 220 forces deployed on the ground, air and ground operations underway

TIRANA, August 12 – Defense Minister Ermal Nufi said today that operations to manage the wildfire in Lura National Park continue at high intensity. The fire affects the Runja area above Borie Lura village. In a social media statement, Nufi said all relevant structures remain engaged in the operation. They …

News

25 years since Ohrid Agreement, FM Hoxha: North Macedonia’s stability is part of Balkan security

TIRANA, August 12 – Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha has highlighted the importance of the Ohrid Framework Agreement ahead of its 25th anniversary on August 13. He described the 2001 accord as a major political and diplomatic achievement for North Macedonia and the Western Balkans. According to Hoxha, the agreement gave …

News

Customs revenue rises 3.7% in 7 months

TIRANA, August 12 – Customs revenue reached ALL 142 billion in the first 7 months of 2026. The figure marks a ALL 5.1 billion increase from the same period in 2025. The increase represents 3.7% growth. General Director of Customs Besmir Beja provided the figures today. He said the Customs …

News

Archbishop Joani attends Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s 65th anniversary in Imbros

TIRANA, August 12 — Archbishop Joani of Tirana, Durrës and All Albania is in Imbros for the celebration of the 65th anniversary of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s entry into the clergy. Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa is also attending the celebration. Joani and Theodore II accompanied Bartholomew to …

News

New draft law changes defence and security procurement

TIRANA, August 12 – The Ministry of Defence has opened public consultation on a new draft law on procurement in defence and security. The draft would replace Law No. 36/2020. The initiative takes into account comments from the European Commission and findings from the Support for Improvement in Governance and …