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 …
Albania reports a significant increase in visitors to cultural heritage sites during April 2026. Rozafa Castle attracts around 17,000 visitors in April alone. It reaches more than 33,000 visitors from January to April, making it one of the most visited sites in the country. Gjirokastër Castle welcomes 14,592 visitors in …
TIRANA, May 5 – On the occasion of 5 May, the Day of the Martyrs, President Bajram Begaj held homage at the National Martyrs’ Cemetery. He laid a wreath at the symbolic monument “Mother Albania”. At the same time, he shared a message on social media in remembrance of the …
TIRANA, May 5 – Climate change no longer represents a distant threat. It already affects economies, infrastructure, and communities across borders. Minister of Environment Sofjan Jaupaj made the statement during the Regional Climate Conference in Tirana. At the same time, he said Albania is pleased to host the conference. He …
TIRANA, May 5 – The Committee on Foreign Affairs of the European Parliament has welcomed Albania’s progress in accession talks with the European Union. It also stressed that full implementation of reforms remains essential. In a report adopted with 58 votes in favour, 7 against, and 7 abstentions, Members of …
Kosovo has approved a new consular mission in the United States. Acting President Albulena Haxhiu signs a decree to establish a consulate in Texas. The consulate will be based in Houston and will operate as a Consulate General. The new mission aims to strengthen Kosovo’s diplomatic presence in the United …
TIRANA, May 5 – The Spile Cave in Himara is one of the most distinctive coastal sites in Albania. The site has undergone an intervention to improve its year-round tourism appeal. At the same time, the cave links to the myth of the Cyclops described by Homer around 2,700 years …
The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania presents a rich cultural program throughout May in Tirana. The month opens with the ballet “Carmen,” staged from May 4 to May 10. The production features the return of Anbeta Toromani in the lead role, alongside Luca Curreli and Alessandro Macario. …
Tirana hosts a full week of cultural and artistic events across theaters, galleries, and music venues. The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania presents performances including “Carmen” and concerts by violinist Tedi Papavrami. Exhibitions continue at several venues. The “S.T.I.L.L” exhibition by Brook Velos runs at Catalyst Institute. …
TIRANA, May 5 – The start of the week has brought high operational activity at the Port of Durrës. The port has scheduled 10 cargo vessels for handling, mainly carrying raw materials for the construction sector. According to the Port Authority of Durrës, six vessels are currently under processing. Two …
TIRANA, May 5 – The SIGMA initiative, a joint programme of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the European Union on governance and public administration reform, has assessed Albania positively in its latest report. It said Albania stands out in several key areas with more consolidated practices. …