Cyprus EU Presidency Backs Albania’s EU Path, Hoxha Says in Nicosia Visit
Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha visited Nicosia, Cyprus, where he held a series of high-level meetings focused on EU integration and bilateral cooperation. First, Hoxha met with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to strengthening cooperation and advancing Albania’s European agenda. In addition, he …
Peleshi Meets Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican, Reaffirms Strong Albania–Holy See Relations
Niko Peleshi met Pope Leo XIV in the Vatican. The meeting reaffirmed strong relations between Albania and the Holy See. Both sides emphasized shared values and cooperation. They highlighted peace, dialogue, and mutual respect. Peleshi presented a symbolic gift from Albania. The gesture expressed friendship and appreciation toward the Holy …
Begaj: Scientific Research Is Key for Albania’s European Path
Bajram Begaj attended an international scientific conference in Tirana focused on the importance of toponymy in shaping Albanian cultural identity. The event was organized by the Institute of Anthropology under the Academy of Sciences. Researchers and academics discussed how place names reflect language, history, and identity. Begaj said that scientific …
A stronger Union for the Mediterranean for a stronger Mediterranean
By H.E. Ambassador Nasser Kamel, Secretary General of the Union for the Mediterranean. Tirana Times, June 25, 2026 – They say no man ever steps in the same river twice. The universe is in a constant state of flux: such is my sentiment as I reflect on my mandate at the Union for the …
Austria Leads FDI, but Real Estate Tells the Bigger Story
Bank of Albania data show Austria topping first-quarter foreign investment flows, while property and construction continue to shape Albania’s FDI model. Tirana Times June 25, 2026 – The figures place Austria ahead of some of Albania’s traditionally dominant investment partners, including Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey. Yet the data also …
Albanian Football Federation sets dates for 2026-2027 domestic season
TIRANA, June 25 – The Executive Committee of the Albanian Football Federation has approved the starting dates for all national competitions in the 2026-2027 football season. The “Abissnet Superiore” championship will begin on August 22, 2026 and end on May 9, 2027. Meanwhile, the “First Category” championship will start on …
Albanian Academy of Sciences marks birth anniversary of academic Rexhep Qosja
TIRANA, June 25 – The Albanian Academy of Sciences marked the birth anniversary of academic, writer, literary critic and Albanologist Rexhep Qosja on Wednesday, describing him as one of the most important figures in Albanian scientific and cultural thought. Born on 25 June 1936 in Vuthaj, Montenegro, he came from …
Endrit Thaçi thanks PM Rama for support over KLA case in The Hague
TIRANA, June 25 – Endrit Thaçi, the son of former Kosova President Hashim Thaçi, met Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and thanked him for his stance on the former KLA leaders facing trial in The Hague. Thaçi said Rama had been among the most outspoken figures in defending the KLA …
Agency warns false reports misused Kakome footage in coverage of Albania investment projects
TIRANA, June 25 – The Agency for Media and Information said misleading use of social media footage has again created confusion in foreign coverage of investment projects in Albania, including reports by CNN and Reuters. In a statement published on Thursday, the agency reviewed several cases of what it described …
Justice minister says Albania must seize historic moment on European Union path
TIRANA, June 25 – Justice Minister Toni Gogu said Albania now stands closer than ever to European Union membership and urged the country not to miss what he called a historic moment. In a social media post, Gogu said he joined a discussion on Wednesday with students from the College …
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
The Hague will deliver its verdict on September 16 in the trial of former Kosovo Liberation Army leaders Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi. The four have pleaded not guilty. The case has attracted significant attention in Kosova because of the defendants’ prominent roles during the 1998-1999 …
Albania ranks among the 10 most preferred destinations outside the European Union for EU residents, according to Eurostat data. The Agency for Media and Information cited Eurostat figures showing around 2 million trips to Albania that included at least one overnight stay. These trips accounted for 2% of all journeys …
Deputy Defence Minister Blerina Abrazhda says Albania needs time to build its defence industry and develop the infrastructure, technology and skilled workforce required for production. She made the remarks in response to opposition criticism of the sector’s initial industrial projects. Abrazhda said Albania should assess early projects not only by …
Around 17,000 students have started the new school year at vocational schools across Albania. The programmes combine theoretical education with practical training and work experience to prepare students for the labour market. Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj wished students a successful new school year. She also sent a …
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja announced that the Goddess of Butrint, known as Dea, has returned to her place of discovery. The return allows visitors to see the valuable archaeological work up close. The sculpture has completed a long journey from the ancient city of Butrint to …
Euronews reports that Albania could rank among the most sought-after tourism destinations in 2027. The report highlights its beaches and competitive prices as key attractions for tourists. Advantage Travel Partnership, a UK-based organisation that brings together independent travel businesses, ranks Albania among the destinations to visit in 2027. It highlights …
The Antigonea Archaeological Park in the Gjirokastër region hosted participants in the Ultra4Charity Mountain Race. The runners crossed the area and explored the landscapes of the Drinos Valley. Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja said the event promoted the area’s cultural heritage and tourism potential. Ultra4Charity organises races and …
Gonxhja: Archaeological Discovery in Strikçan Among Five Finalists for International “Palmyra” Award
A monumental tomb discovered in Strikçan, Bulqizë, has been selected among the five finalists for the international “Palmyra” Award and the “Special” Public Award at the Borsa Mediterranea del Turismo Archeologico (BMTA). The Institute of Archaeology led the project that uncovered the monumental tomb. Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi …
Tourists continue to visit Vlora in September as they enjoy the final days of summer, the city’s natural beauty and its lively coastal atmosphere. The coastal city remains a popular destination even after the peak summer months. September brings milder temperatures and a quieter atmosphere. This combination attracts visitors who …