Parliament approves marina law and anti-money laundering changes; Olta Rrushaj elected to Bank of Albania Supervisory Council
The Albanian Parliament held a plenary session today. Lawmakers debated governance and EU integration issues. First, opposition leader Gazment Bardhi criticized the strategic investment law. He said it does not serve public interest. Instead, he said it benefits a limited group. Next, MP Jorida Tabaku opposed changes to Parliament’s Rules …
Exclusive / Gonzato: There is no blockage in Albania’s EU integration processes
This Thursday, the EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, spoke to Euronews Albania in an interview with moderator Mirela Milori. Gonzato discussed Albania’s integration process and stated that there is no blockage in the process. On the other hand, he emphasized that these are confidential discussions in accordance with the …
Foreign Interference and Election Observation in Hungary’s 2026 Parliamentary Vote
by David J. Kostelancik Tirana Times, April 09, 2026 – Hungary’s parliamentary elections, scheduled for April 12, 2026, are unfolding in an environment shaped not only by domestic political competition but also by broader geopolitical tensions and debates about external influence. Charges of election interference have involved disinformation from state-controlled media, allegations …
Over 100 athletes compete in Albania’s national tournament for people with intellectual disabilities
TIRANA, April 9 – Over 100 athletes from across Albania joined the National Athletics and Table Tennis Tournament for people with intellectual disabilities. The event promotes inclusive sports and social equality. Athletes competed with energy and respect. They showed how sports can overcome social and physical barriers. The Albanian National …
Speaker Peleshi: Strengthening parliamentary cooperation with the Bundestag
TIRANA, April 9 – Parliament Speaker Niko Peleshi met with Gunnar Schellenberger, President of the Saxony-Anhalt State Parliament. They focused on enhancing inter-parliamentary ties and boosting economic cooperation between Albania and Germany. Peleshi highlighted the need to intensify collaboration between the Albanian Parliament and the Bundestag, and to expand exchanges …
“Islands”: Albania rises on tourism map as Ksamil draws Caribbean comparisons
TIRANA, April 9 – Albania is gaining attention as a beach destination in Europe. An article in the U.S. travel magazine Islands highlights the coastal village of Ksamil as a rising hotspot. The report asks which European destination offers Caribbean-style beaches at lower cost in 2026. It points to Albania’s …
Albania women’s team targets strong start against Wales in 2027 World Cup qualifiers
TIRANA, April 9 – Albania’s women’s national team continued preparations for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers. The team held its latest training session at the “House of Football.” Albania will face Wales on April 14 at 20:15 at “Stok Cae Ras” stadium. Players are following an intensive training program ahead …
Economy and Innovation Minister: New law aims to boost strategic investments in tourist ports
TIRANA, April 9 – Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj presented a draft law to amend the framework on tourist ports. She said the initiative will simplify procedures for strategic investments in resorts, marinas, and tourist ports. Ibrahimaj said Albania has recorded strong tourism growth. The country welcomed 6.4 million …
PM Rama: Construction sector reflects Albania’s economic transformation
TIRANA, April 9 – Prime Minister Edi Rama said the construction sector plays a key role in Albania’s economic and social transformation. He made the remarks during a meeting with business representatives on wage growth, alongside Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj. Rama rejected claims that link the sector to …
Spring Fair in Korça draws crowds with artisans and festive activities
TIRANA, April 9 – Korça’s central square in front of the Orthodox Cathedral came alive with the Spring Fair ahead of Easter. The event, now a local tradition, brings together artisans and visitors from across the country. Stalls showcase handmade crafts, traditional products, and souvenirs, creating a lively and authentic …
Parliament reappointed Denar Biba as head of the Competition Authority Commission. It approved the decision with 73 votes in favor and 13 against. Biba has held the post since December 2021. He graduated from the Faculty of Law at the University of Tirana. He completed a master’s degree in Southeast …
Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Andis Salla said IPARD funds will be available to farmers within this year. He made the statement in Parliament. He responded to LSI MP Tedi Blushi, who raised concerns about the IPARD funds. Salla said the process is currently under investigation. He assured that Albania …
Agriculture Minister Andis Salla said the agreement on implementing the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea is an important international instrument. It targets the management of transboundary and highly migratory fish stocks. He spoke in Parliament. He said the agreement promotes conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. …
Prime Minister Edi Rama visited Italy. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed him in an official ceremony at Palazzo Chigi. They then held a one-on-one meeting. They discussed bilateral cooperation. They focused on deepening relations. They also addressed regional and European issues of common interest. Rama also met Italian Defense Minister …
Bank of Albania Governor Gent Sejko and Finance Minister Petrit Malaj met with the new IMF mission chief for Albania, Diego Cerdeiro. The meeting took place during the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington. Sejko and Malaj presented an overview of Albania’s latest economic and financial situation. They …
BALA organized a panel with the High Inspector of Justice in Tirana. Diaspora Albanian jurists attended during the Fourth Diaspora Summit. Metani hosted the meeting. Rusi and Çela joined the discussion. The panel focused on justice reform and the role of the diaspora. Muharremi moderated the event. Metani said institutions …
Speaker of Parliament Niko Peleshi met EU Ambassador Silvio Gonzato, Tatiana Mrazikova from the European Parliament office in Tirana, and IDEA +7 representatives. The meeting took place at the Albanian Parliament. It focused on strengthening cooperation between Albanian institutions and the European Parliament. Peleshi said closer EU cooperation helps speed …
Painter Skënder Kamberi has died at the age of 87. He dedicated his life to art and painting. He was born in Vlorë on February 2, 1939. He graduated from the Artistic Lyceum in 1960. He later studied at the Higher Institute of Arts, graduating in 1965. After his studies, …
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni commented after her meeting with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama in Rome. She said both countries continue to cooperate closely. She stressed that the main priority remains the fight against irregular migration. Meloni said the meeting at Palazzo Chigi reviewed the strengthening of bilateral partnership. …
The Albanian Parliament approved all items on the agenda during today’s plenary session. It passed four key agreements and legislative acts. Lawmakers ratified Protocol No. 7 of CEFTA. The protocol covers dispute settlement in trade agreements. It passed with 87 votes in favor. Parliament also approved a financing agreement between …