“The Flamingo Revolution” Goes Beyond Kushner and the Birds
By Jezerca Tigani Tirana Times, June 15, 2026 – Every time I visit Albania, the conversation is always the same — not about politics, elections, the new airport, or the promise of membership in the European Union. It is about leaving. For several years now, the country has been gripped …
Albania Signs Three Council of Europe Conventions on Rule of Law, Democracy, and Human Rights
Albania signed three important conventions at the Council of Europe headquarters in Strasbourg, strengthening its commitment to the rule of law, democracy, and human rights, Justice Minister Toni Gogu said. He stated that the first convention focuses on the use of artificial intelligence. According to him, technology must remain under …
Spahiu: Reforms Remain Key Priority for EU Integration
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Klodiana Spahiu said that reforms remain a top priority for Albania’s European Union integration process. She made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the French Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, led by Jean-François Rapin. First, both sides highlighted the strong relations between Albania and …
VanHorn: Investors Need Trust as Albania Ensures a Level Playing Field
U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Nancy VanHorn said investors need trust, clear rules, and equal competition conditions as Albania advances its foreign investment screening framework. She made the remarks during a presentation by the American Chamber of Commerce on Foreign Direct Investment. First, VanHorn described Albania’s FDI screening framework as a …
Hita Honors Two U.S. Diplomats for Strengthening Albania–U.S. Cooperation
The Albanian State Police held a ceremony at its General Directorate to honor two U.S. diplomats at the end of their missions in Albania. Police Director General Skënder Hita recognized the contributions of Deputy Chief of Mission Kathryn Hammond and Regional Security Officer Jonathan Ellis. First, Hita praised both diplomats …
Fino: Chapter 31 Among the Most Advanced in Albania’s EU Negotiations
Deputy Foreign Minister Megi Fino said Chapter 31 remains one of the most advanced areas in Albania’s EU accession negotiations. She spoke during a hearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Europe and Foreign Affairs. She serves as chief negotiator for Chapter 31 and co-negotiator for Chapter 30. First, Fino said …
Lekë Dukagjini and the Legacy of the Kanun
Prince Lekë Dukagjini died on June 15, 1481. He left behind a lasting legacy linked to the “Kanun,” Albania’s customary law system. First, the Kanun developed over a long historical period. However, Lekë Dukagjini’s name became strongly associated with it due to its widespread use and influence in northern Albania. …
Koçiu: Albania Leads the Region in Price Stability with 2.8% Inflation
Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu said Albania continues to deliver strong economic results. As a result, the country ranks among the region’s best performers in both economic growth and inflation control. According to the latest statistics, Albania recorded an inflation rate of 2.8% in April 2026. This figure was lower …
EU: Kushner-Linked Project Must Meet European Environmental Standards
EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said Albania has assured the European Commission that the €1.4 billion tourism project linked to Jared Kushner will fully comply with EU environmental standards. The Albanian government pledged to carry out a full environmental impact assessment. It also committed to following all EU rules on …
Customs Administration Prepares Businesses for EU Common Transit System
Albania’s Customs Administration is advancing the implementation of the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS), a major step toward integration with the European Union’s Common Transit Convention. To support the process, customs authorities are conducting dedicated training sessions for system users. In these activities, representatives of the company developing the platform, …
The National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation (AKKSHI) highlighted Albania’s strong potential for wind energy development on World Wind Energy Day. First, the agency presented results from a research project that evaluates wind energy resources in Albania. The study shows that wind power could reduce electricity imports and lower …
The comedy “Sonte do darkojmë në shtrat” will return to the stage in Tirana tonight and continue on June 16, 17, and 18 at the National Theatre “ArTurbina.” First, director Kiço Londo brings the production back after successful performances in several cities across Albania. The play, written by Marc Camoletti, …
Authorities in Albania are intensifying preparations for the upcoming concert of American rapper Kanye West in Tirana, scheduled for July 11. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Blendi Gonxhja said teams are working on the ground to deliver a safe and memorable experience for attendees. First, officials from the Ministry, …
TIRANA, June 16 – Finance Minister Petrit Malaj said Albania continues to rank among the most stable economies in the region. He said the country combines economic growth with the lowest inflation rate in the Western Balkans. Malaj referred to Eurostat harmonised inflation data for April 2026. The data show …
TIRANA, June 16 – According to an article published by the French daily “Le Figaro”, Albania is emerging as one of the most attractive Mediterranean destinations for French tourists seeking summer holiday alternatives. The report, written by Sevin Rey – Sahin, highlights Albania alongside Slovenia and Montenegro as increasingly popular …
TIRANA, June 16 – The Military Meteorological Service said on Tuesday that Albania will be under stable atmospheric conditions. Weather is forecast to remain clear across most of the country. Light and passing cloud cover is expected, mainly during midday and afternoon hours. In eastern mountainous areas, cloud cover may …
TIRANA, June 16 – Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Blendi Gonxhja said cultural heritage remains one of Albania’s strongest success stories. He referred to the steady rise in visitor numbers at heritage sites. From January to May 2026, cultural institutions and heritage centres recorded 424,082 visitors. The figure includes …
The University of Arts in Tirana held the second International Conference on Arts and Education. The event brought together about 105 participants from Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Italy, and Greece. Researchers presented around 95 scientific papers. First, participants shared studies across multiple fields. These included music, cultural heritage, education, …
TIRANA, June 16 – Minister of Defence Ermal Nufi met in Washington with Mary Beth Morgan, acting director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency. The meeting took place during his official visit to the United States. In a social media post, Nufi said the discussion focused on advancing projects of …
TIRANA, June 16 – President of the Republic Bajram Begaj is on an official visit to Uzbekistan at the invitation of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The visit marks the first official trip by an Albanian president to Uzbekistan since diplomatic relations started in 1993. Meanwhile in Tashkent, President Mirziyoyev welcomed the …