Hoxha meets Kos in Delphi. Intensive work continues for EU membership
Ferit Hoxha met Marta Kos at the Delphi Economic Forum. They discussed Albania’s EU integration process. Hoxha said the EU membership process never stops. It requires constant work and energy. He stressed the role of both Albania and its partners. He said they discussed key issues for steady progress. They …
Week in Review: Moves Towards Change, But in Which Direction?
Our selection of Balkan Insight Premium stories this week tells a story of political change in key countries in the region, but associated uncertainty about future political directions. Original post Here
DPA exhibits rare diaries and manuscripts in Tirana
The General Directorate of Archives (DPA) organized a special exhibition in Tirana to mark World Book and Copyright Day. The event showcased rare diaries and original manuscripts of prominent Albanian figures for the first time. The exhibition took place in the cultural space “Auditor” and brought together officials, writers, critics, …
Albania pushes cash reduction as businesses face 30 May POS terminal deadline
TIRANA, April 24 – Businesses in Albania have 37 days left to meet legal requirements for cashless payments through POS terminals in selected sectors. The obligation applies to accommodation services, transport operators, and public institutions. The deadline for tourism and transport businesses is set for 30 May 2026. Separate provisions …
Albania advances green finance framework with European Investment Bank support
TIRANA, April 24 – Albania’s Financial Supervisory Authority held talks with the European Investment Bank on developing a national green investment guide and strengthening sustainable finance standards. The meeting brought together experts from the European Investment Bank, led by Alessandro de Concini, the institution’s representative in Albania. Discussions focused on …
Dinamo City reach Albanian Cup final after narrow win over Vllaznia in Shkodër
TIRANA, April 24 – Dinamo City have qualified for the Albanian Cup final after defeating Vllaznia 1–0 at the “Loro Boriçi” stadium in Shkodër. The result followed a tightly contested semi-final second leg, where both sides created early chances but failed to convert in the first half. The first leg …
Government advances redevelopment of Selman Stërmasi stadium in Tirana
TIRANA, April 24 – The government approved legal changes to move forward with the redevelopment of the Selman Stërmasi stadium in Tirana. The revised decision expands the role of the Albanian Investment Corporation, which will act as project developer through partnership contracts. The model allows the corporation to work with …
Cruise ship “Monet” opens summer tourist season in Vlora
TIRANA, April 24 – The cruise ship “Monet” arrived at the port of Vlora on Friday, marking the start of the summer tourist season in the coastal city. Port authorities said the vessel, sailing under the Kingstown flag, carried 48 tourists from countries including Croatia, Portugal, Germany and the United …
Nationwide coastal maintenance drive begins ahead of summer season
TIRANA, April 24 – Authorities have begun a nationwide coastal maintenance drive across municipalities and natural parks ahead of the summer tourist season. The Ministry of Environment is coordinating the effort with other institutions, local governments and volunteer groups. Teams are carrying out maintenance work along beaches and public areas, …
German-backed projects advance in energy, water and public transport sectors
TIRANA, April 24 – German-supported projects are expanding in Albania across energy, water supply and public transport sectors. A senior official from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development highlighted ongoing investments in energy infrastructure. She said a newly financed substation in Petrela will strengthen electricity supply for …
TIRANA, June 26 – US magazine Quartz reports that Albania ranks among the 10 most affordable international destinations for this period. It highlights the country as one of Europe’s biggest tourism surprises. It cites its coastline, mountains and low costs. According to Quartz, travellers can save significantly when they choose …
TIRANA, June 26 – Defence Minister Ermal Nufi held a meeting at the Support Command of the Armed Forces. He underlined the role of the structure in managing crisis situations and field operations. He shared details of the visit through social media. Meanwhile, Nufi said that military structures must prioritise …
Foreign direct investment in Albania increased by 12% in the first quarter of 2026, reaching around 404 million euros. Banka e Shqipërisë reported that inflows rose from 361 million euros in the same period last year to 404 million euros this year. As a result, foreign investor interest in the …
TIRANA, June 26 – Prime Minister Edi Rama gave an interview to Italpress journalist Anna La Rosa, and he addressed Albania’s EU accession process, the migration agreement with Italy, and domestic protests over a tourism project. Rama said the EU accession process remains irreversible. He added that no actor can …
TIRANA, June 26 – Albania is marking the 82nd anniversary of the genocide against Cham Albanians through a series of events focused on historical memory, justice and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Cham Week began in Tirana on “Dëshmorët e Kombit” boulevard with the installation “I Love Çamëria”, presented as a symbol …
Blerim Gashani said that Kosovo is working to ensure that it organizes the Mediterranean Games at the highest European standards. He announced that the First International Conference on the Security of Major Sports Events was held in Prishtina. The event is part of preparations for the “Prishtina 2030” Mediterranean Games. …
TIRANA, June 26 – The European Commission prepares proposals to grant economic benefits to European Union candidate countries before full membership, according to politico.eu. Albania is among the candidates mentioned in the plans. The initiative aims to accelerate enlargement while preserving entry standards. Governments seek faster progress in the process. …
TIRANA, June 26 – Minister of Interior Besfort Lamallari, together with State Police leaders, presented in Durrës the measures for ensuring public order and safety during the 2026 summer tourist season. Lamallari said the State Police, Border Police and the Maritime Police Unit will operate with increased capacity, modern technology …
TIRANA, June 26 – Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Andis Salla and Kosova’s Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development Minister Armend Muja inspected the Morina Border Inspection Point. The ministers reviewed bilateral cooperation on food safety and cross-border trade procedures. Meanwhile, Salla said Albania and Kosova continue to strengthen institutional coordination. …
TIRANA, June 26 – Former French President François Hollande said Albania remains on course to join the European Union by 2030. He made the remarks in an interview with Top Channel. Hollande recalled that France recognized Albania as a candidate country during his presidency. Meanwhile, he said Albania has made …