Erion Veliaj, Rising Star in Albania, Felled by Corruption Charges

The mayor of Tirana was once tipped to be Albania’s next prime minister. Now he’s behind bars after being arrested on graft charges, possibly facing a very different future.

Original post Here

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Week in Review: Flamingos, Deflections and Posturing

Like the weather, the political temperature across the region is rising, as our selection of Balkan Insight Premium stories this week highlights. Original post Here

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FM Hoxha in Cyprus: European Union support, Tirana-Nicosia flights discussed

TIRANA, June 26 – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha met Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos during an official visit to Cyprus. The ministers discussed stronger bilateral relations and cooperation in areas of common interest. Meanwhile, Hoxha thanked Cyprus for its continued support for Albania’s European Union integration. …

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Draft property tax law opens for public consultation, Finance minister highlights low rates

TIRANA, June 26 – The Ministry of Finance has opened a draft law on immovable property tax for public consultation. Finance Minister Petrit Malaj said the reform protects Albanian families and preserves one of the region’s lowest property tax rates. Meanwhile, Malaj said the proposal would not increase the tax …