Letter from Washington: US and EU Square Off Over Balkan Assets
Once a field of cooperation, the Balkans is turning into a battleground for competing US and European visions and interests, says Jovana Djurovic in her latest despatch from DC. Original post Here
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: June 29, 2026
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
Rama: Eni Agreement Will Strengthen Energy Security and Create a New Market Operator
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that Albania has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Italian energy company Eni S.p.A. The agreement aims to strengthen the country’s energy security. The partnership will help create a national strategic reserve for oil and gas supply and storage. It comes as global energy …
Beja: We Strengthen Regional Cooperation for Postal Security
Customs officials and postal operators from across the region met in Tirana to improve the security of postal and express deliveries. The meeting took place under the Hermes Project, led by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). During the meeting, participants discussed current challenges. They also shared …
Cruise Ship Nautica Brings 665 Tourists to Durrës
Durrës continues to attract visitors throughout the year. During the summer, many tourists also arrive by sea. This week, the cruise ship Nautica brought 665 tourists from around the world to the Port of Durrës. The ship returned as part of its Mediterranean itinerary. Most of the visitors come from …
Temperatures to reach 39°C
TIRANA, June 29 – Albania will experience stable weather conditions on Monday, according to the Military Meteorological Service. Forecasters expect clear skies across the country. Meanwhile, a few passing clouds may develop around midday over eastern mountainous areas. In addition, northeasterly to northwesterly winds will blow at up to 7 …
Australian tourist recovers after viper bite in Valbona
TIRANA, June 29 – Australian tourist Amy Lecons is in good health after a viper bit her in a remote area of the Albanian Alps, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection said. Medical teams from the Valbona Summer Health Centre responded immediately after receiving the emergency alert. They provided …
Shkodër entrance park advances
TIRANA, June 29 – Construction crews continue work on a new park at the entrance to Shkodër. The project will create a multifunctional space for all age groups. Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images from the construction site on social media. Meanwhile, he said the project has transformed an area …
President Begaj praises Poland’s support for EU integration
TIRANA, June 29 – President Bajram Begaj attended the ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of the 1956 Poznan Uprising in Poznan at the invitation of Polish President Karol Nawrocki. During the ceremony, the participating heads of state adopted a joint declaration. They reaffirmed their commitment to preserving historical memory, defending …
National Geographic Orion Adds Durrës and Saranda to Its Mediterranean Route
The expedition ship National Geographic Orion visits the Port of Durrës with 108 passengers on board. The ship includes Durrës as part of its Mediterranean itinerary. It continues its journey after a day stop in Durrës and sails toward Saranda. The Port Authority of Durrës highlights that the ship specializes …
TIRANA, June 29 – European Union Ambassador to Albania Silvio Gonzato called on newly graduated magistrates to carry out their duties with integrity, honesty, courage and humility. He said every decision they take will directly affect citizens’ lives and trust in the justice system. Meanwhile, Gonzato spoke at the National …
Emanuele Giordano dedicates his life to preserving Arbëresh heritage. He is born on 27 June 1920 in Frascineto, Calabria. He studies philosophy and theology in Rome and develops strong academic expertise. He becomes a leading voice in philology and literature. He writes major works such as “Fjalori i Arbëreshvet t’Italisë” …
TIRANA, June 29 – Around 900,000 pensioners will benefit from a new 2.7% pension indexation starting from July 1. The decision was approved at the latest government meeting. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu said the measure is part of the government’s ongoing policies to support pensioners. She made the …
TIRANA, June 29 – Supreme Court President Sokoli Sadushi spoke at the National Conference on the interaction between the justice system and the media. He said justice requires integrity, impartiality and public responsibility. Meanwhile, he called for deeper reflection on the role and responsibilities of magistrates in carrying out their …
The Italian newspaper La Repubblica describes Albania as a country where modern life and historical heritage coexist. It presents a journey from Tirana to Berat that reveals strong contrasts across the country. It shows Tirana with its new skyscrapers, electric vehicles, and rapid urban growth. It also shows rural areas …
TIRANA, June 29 – Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images on social media from ongoing works on the “Lungomare 4” coastal promenade project in Radhima. He described the project as another milestone in the transformation of the Vlora coastline. Meanwhile, Rama also published a video showing the progress of works …
TIRANA, June 29 – Director of the School of Magistrates Arben Rakipi said media and the justice system must maintain a balanced relationship during the National Conference on the interaction between justice and media. Meanwhile, he said the justice system must remain open to the public. He stressed transparency and …
TIRANA, June 29 – The Committee on Europe and Foreign Affairs reviewed a draft law on amendments to Law No. 90/2012 on the organisation and functioning of the state administration. Meanwhile, Minister of State for Public Administration and Anti-Corruption Adea Pirdeni said the bill forms a key pillar of public …
TIRANA, June 29 – Vlora is hosting tourists from around the world this summer as visitors explore the Ionian coastline, local cuisine and hospitality. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images on social media showing crowded streets and the Lungomare promenade in the coastal city. At the same time, Vlora …
TIRANA, June 29 – The Queen Geraldine maternity hospital has reopened after a full renovation that modernised one of Albania’s leading healthcare institutions for women and newborns. The investment introduced modern facilities, advanced technology and improved working conditions for medical staff. The hospital treats more than 20,000 patients each year …