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PM Rama visits NATO cyber defence centre in Estonia, Albania joins cyber excellence hub

TIRANA, May 15 – Prime Minister Edi Rama visited the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence in Estonia during his official trip with the Albanian delegation. He met the centre’s leadership and learned about its role in strengthening NATO cyber defence. Meanwhile, Rama said in a social media post …

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EU Delegation Shares Meeting Between Gonzato and SPAK Court Chief Erion Bani

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(–scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(–thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-(–header-height)” dir=”auto” data-turn-id=”8fa7d608-d719-4436-9c65-0352c40cc134″ data-turn-id-container=”8fa7d608-d719-4436-9c65-0352c40cc134″ data-testid=”conversation-turn-9″ data-scroll-anchor=”false” data-turn=”user”> The building of the Special Court Against Corruption and Organized Crime (GJKKO) has recently been renovated to meet the highest European Union standards, while the project’s funding was supported by the EU. *]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(–scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(–thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(–header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]” dir=”auto” data-turn-id=”request-WEB:92c9d7c5-2d9e-4efd-92bd-a0a1908c78ca-4″ data-turn-id-container=”request-WEB:92c9d7c5-2d9e-4efd-92bd-a0a1908c78ca-4″ data-testid=”conversation-turn-10″ …

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“Tour of Albania 2026” Cycling Race: Police Publish Traffic Restriction Plan for 5 Days

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(–scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(–thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-(–header-height)” dir=”auto” data-turn-id=”5b0f1cb6-6588-41e1-9b36-c1f3b3458222″ data-turn-id-container=”5b0f1cb6-6588-41e1-9b36-c1f3b3458222″ data-testid=”conversation-turn-7″ data-scroll-anchor=”false” data-turn=”user”> The Albanian State Police has published the traffic management plan for the “Tour of Albania 2026,” an event that will take place on May 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22, 2026, across the territory of the Republic of Albania. *]:pointer-events-auto …

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Albania-Italy Anti-Cannabis Air Campaign Launched

For the 15th consecutive year, the Albanian State Police and the Italian Guardia di Finanza officially launched this Friday their joint campaign for aerial monitoring of Albanian territory, focusing on the prevention and crackdown of narcotic plant cultivation. The ceremony took place at the General Directorate of the State Police, …

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Tax Administration Announces Cancellation of Fines for Businesses Before 2014

The Tax Administration and Customs Administration are required to remove from their balance sheets all business debts created before December 31, 2014. The General Directorate of Taxes has announced that businesses with unpaid liabilities from 2015 to 2024 will be able to begin installment payments starting June 10. According to …

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Ombudsman: Priority Must Be Given to Prisoners Who Have No Voice — Well-Known Inmates Already Have “Public Advocacy”

The Ombudsman of Albania, Endri Shabani, speaking from Pogradec in a statement to the media, addressed complaints submitted to the Ombudsman’s institution by imprisoned citizens. He stated that although public attention is mainly focused on famous inmates, priority should be given to citizens suffering from health problems and living in …

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Nufi: Focus on Modernizing Air Defense and Cyber Capabilities in the Armed Forces

Minister of Defense Ermal Nufi stated during a press conference on Friday that the country’s main priority is the development of military and technological capabilities for the modernization of the Armed Forces, as well as preparedness for civil emergencies during the summer season. According to Nufi, particular focus is being …

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U.S. Embassy in Tirana: Cybersecurity Essential for Sovereignty and Economic Growth

Cybersecurity has now become an inseparable element of economic growth and national security. This was stated by the Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at the United States Embassy in Tirana, Kathryn Hammond, during an event where American cybersecurity solutions were presented. Referring to the importance of protecting digital infrastructure, Hammond …

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Rama from Estonia: “I Came and Brought You the Sunshine — In Albania You Will Not Find Sympathy for Putin”

Prime Minister Edi Rama, during a joint press conference with Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal, spoke about the relationship between Albania and Estonia. Rama began his speech with a few jokes, humorously saying that he had “brought the sunshine to Estonia” with his arrival. At the same time, the Prime …

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Kurti Requests EU Candidate Status for Kosovo: “Serbia Attacks Instead of Cooperating”

Kosovo’s acting Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, following a meeting with European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, called for Kosovo’s advancement in the EU integration process, including obtaining candidate country status. He stated that Kosovo is not asking for shortcuts or a “back door,” but only for a merit-based process. At …

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Monday Briefing from the Balkans: May 25, 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

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Protect Nature, EU interactive contest promotes Albania’s biodiversity

TIRANA May 25 – The Delegation of the European Union in Albania has launched the “Protect Nature” contest. The initiative promotes biodiversity and environmental protection through an interactive experience in several Albanian cities. The campaign covers Tirana, Shkodër, Durrës, and Vlora. It uses green stickers placed in public areas. Each …

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Vatican honors Albanian ambassador Majlinda Frangaj for contribution to bilateral relations

TIRANA, May 25 – The Vatican has awarded Albanian ambassador to the Holy See Majlinda Frangaj the title “Dame Grand Cross of the Piano Order”, one of the highest civil decorations of the Holy See. The Piano Order was founded by Pope Pius IX. It is considered one of the …

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Rama: Bënja Baths to become a modern tourism destination in nature

Renovation works at Bënja Baths are continuing. The site is located about 14 kilometers from the city of Përmet. It lies in the Petran administrative unit, near the meeting point of the Vjosa River and the Lengarica stream. Prime Minister Edi Rama said the transformation will be completed soon. He …

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Tirana hosts elite padel tournament, free entry at Skanderbeg Square from 26–30 May

TIRANA, May 25 – Tirana will become an international centre for elite padel sport. The city will host a major tournament from 26 to 30 May at Skanderbeg Square, with free entry for the public. Top international players will compete in the event. They will play for key ranking points …

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Gjirokastër Castle continues to attract visitors, Gonxhja says

Gjirokastër Castle remains one of Albania’s most visited cultural heritage sites, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja said today. He noted that the monument is enjoying another successful tourist season, with growing interest in cultural tourism in southern Albania. Gonxhja shared images from the site showing the castle …

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Over 5,000 farmers apply for national support scheme, minister says

TIRANA, May 25 – Farmers across the country can apply from today for the National Support Scheme 2026. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development launched the programme with 12 support measures. Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Andis Salla said farmers now have full access to apply and benefit from …

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Ancient olive groves of Ndroq, Varosh Castle and warm hospitality near Tirana

Visitors travel to Ndroq and explore its ancient olive groves and rural trails. First, they follow walking paths through green hills and traditional village landscapes.Then, they pass through old orchards and stone terraces. As they move forward, they discover the olive groves of Ndroq. Locals cultivate these groves and maintain …

News
France awards soprano Ermonela Jaho with Knight of Arts and Letters title

TIRANA, May 25 – France has awarded Albanian soprano Ermonela Jaho the title “Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres” (Knight of Arts and Letters). France grants the distinction to individuals with outstanding contributions to the arts. Jaho reacted online after receiving the award. She said the title represents a great …

News
Shëngjin opens 2026 tourism season, Nufi says city is ready for more visitors

Shëngjin officially opened the summer tourism season last night with a series of activities. The event gathered residents of Lezhë and tourists from different countries. The opening ceremony, “Shëngjin 2026”, was attended by Minister of Defence Ermal Nufi, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Andis Salla, and Lezhë Mayor Pjerin …

News

Monday Briefing from the Balkans: May 25, 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

News

Protect Nature, EU interactive contest promotes Albania’s biodiversity

TIRANA May 25 – The Delegation of the European Union in Albania has launched the “Protect Nature” contest. The initiative promotes biodiversity and environmental protection through an interactive experience in several Albanian cities. The campaign covers Tirana, Shkodër, Durrës, and Vlora. It uses green stickers placed in public areas. Each …

News

Vatican honors Albanian ambassador Majlinda Frangaj for contribution to bilateral relations

TIRANA, May 25 – The Vatican has awarded Albanian ambassador to the Holy See Majlinda Frangaj the title “Dame Grand Cross of the Piano Order”, one of the highest civil decorations of the Holy See. The Piano Order was founded by Pope Pius IX. It is considered one of the …

News

Rama: Bënja Baths to become a modern tourism destination in nature

Renovation works at Bënja Baths are continuing. The site is located about 14 kilometers from the city of Përmet. It lies in the Petran administrative unit, near the meeting point of the Vjosa River and the Lengarica stream. Prime Minister Edi Rama said the transformation will be completed soon. He …

News

Tirana hosts elite padel tournament, free entry at Skanderbeg Square from 26–30 May

TIRANA, May 25 – Tirana will become an international centre for elite padel sport. The city will host a major tournament from 26 to 30 May at Skanderbeg Square, with free entry for the public. Top international players will compete in the event. They will play for key ranking points …

News

Gjirokastër Castle continues to attract visitors, Gonxhja says

Gjirokastër Castle remains one of Albania’s most visited cultural heritage sites, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja said today. He noted that the monument is enjoying another successful tourist season, with growing interest in cultural tourism in southern Albania. Gonxhja shared images from the site showing the castle …

News

Over 5,000 farmers apply for national support scheme, minister says

TIRANA, May 25 – Farmers across the country can apply from today for the National Support Scheme 2026. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development launched the programme with 12 support measures. Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Andis Salla said farmers now have full access to apply and benefit from …

News

Ancient olive groves of Ndroq, Varosh Castle and warm hospitality near Tirana

Visitors travel to Ndroq and explore its ancient olive groves and rural trails. First, they follow walking paths through green hills and traditional village landscapes.Then, they pass through old orchards and stone terraces. As they move forward, they discover the olive groves of Ndroq. Locals cultivate these groves and maintain …

News

France awards soprano Ermonela Jaho with Knight of Arts and Letters title

TIRANA, May 25 – France has awarded Albanian soprano Ermonela Jaho the title “Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres” (Knight of Arts and Letters). France grants the distinction to individuals with outstanding contributions to the arts. Jaho reacted online after receiving the award. She said the title represents a great …

News

Shëngjin opens 2026 tourism season, Nufi says city is ready for more visitors

Shëngjin officially opened the summer tourism season last night with a series of activities. The event gathered residents of Lezhë and tourists from different countries. The opening ceremony, “Shëngjin 2026”, was attended by Minister of Defence Ermal Nufi, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Andis Salla, and Lezhë Mayor Pjerin …