Why Britain Needs the Western Balkans Summit to Deliver on Migration
The UK’s ambitious agenda for the London summit of the Berlin Process reflects its commitment to the Western Balkans region but also its own domestic priorities, starting with illegal migration. Original post Here
Türkiye and Albania: From Shared Past to Strategic Future
By Marjana Doda, This feature draws on exclusive insights from an interview with Ambassador Tayyar Kagan Atay, the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Tirana. On the occasion of the 102nd anniversary of diplomatic relations, Ambassador Atay reflects on the unique depth of Albanian–Turkish ties—links shaped by shared history …
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: October 20, 2025
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
Albanian Judges Decry ‘Non-Existent Security’ After Courtroom Killing
The courtroom killing of a judge in Tirana has prompted calls from Albanian judges and prosecutors for authorities to get serious about their ‘almost non-existent’ security. Original post Here
Albania–Kosovo Rift Weakens the Albanian Voice
The Rama–Kurti clash over the war crimes tribunal highlights deeper structural tensions, from unimplemented agreements to competing regional agendas. The latest clash between Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Kosovo’s Albin Kurti is more than another exchange of political insults. It reflects the fragile state of relations between Albania and …
Tirana Protesters Demand Justice for Kosovo War Leaders
Hundreds of protesters rallied in the Albanian capital on Friday demanding justice for former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) on trial in The Hague, denouncing the proceedings as an attack on the wartime struggle against Serbian forces. The demonstrators, many waving KLA flags and chanting slogans such as …
Protesters in Albania Demand ‘Justice’ in Kosovo Wartime Leaders’ Trial
Protesters in the Albanian capital expressed anger at the ongoing trial of wartime Kosovo Liberation Army officers at the Specialist Chambers in The Hague, saying the defendants were freedom fighters, not criminals. Original post Here
Albania in the Second War World : A Forgotten Theater of World War II
By Bernd Fischer It is becoming increasingly difficult to justify yet another book dealing with some aspect of World War II. Of all the armed conflicts of past centuries, World War II has engendered the most interest as well as an exhausting amount of written material. The opening of the …
Vlora Airport Stirs Security Fears Over Russian Links
Albania’s Second National Airport Sparks Concerns for National Security and NATO The opening of Albania’s second international airport in Vlora, celebrated as a milestone in the country’s infrastructure modernization, has quickly become embroiled in controversy. Reports in Albanian media suggest that the concession holder, businessman and former Kosovo president Behgjet …
Albania’s Currency Exchanges Tied to Drug Money Laundering
By Tirana Times Staff TIRANA, Albania,October 16,2025. Behind brightly lit kiosks advertising euros, dollars and pounds, prosecutors say a hidden financial system is moving millions in illicit cash for some of Albania’s most powerful drug-trafficking groups. Recent investigations by the Special Anti-Corruption Structure, or SPAK, reveal that certain licensed currency …
TIRANA, April 2 – After more than two decades, the legendary Spring Festival (Festivali i Pranverës) returns to the stage of the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet on 6 and 7 June. The festival, organized with the support of the Albanian Radio and Television (RTSH), offers a platform for …
Democratic Party leader Sali Berisha has marked the 17th anniversary of Albania’s NATO membership, describing it as “the greatest miracle of freedom” after the country’s independence. In a public reaction on social media, Berisha praised NATO’s role in defending Western civilization and highlighted the contribution of former U.S. President George …
During a meeting with the Socialist Party Assembly in Unit 14 in Tirana, Prime Minister Edi Rama stated that for the first time Albanians are facing a real opportunity to integrate into the European Union. He emphasized that the door for the country is open and that the support of …
TIRANA, April 2 – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said the European Commission is the strongest advocate Albania has had. He stressed that the country’s European Union integration process continues without delays. At the same time, he described the current phase as a decisive moment for Albania’s …
TIRANA, April 2 – State Minister and Chief Negotiator Majlinda Dhuka said Albania is advancing steadily towards European Union membership. She spoke during a discussion with students on the integration process. She stressed that accession is not only a technical exercise. Instead, it represents a deep European transformation for the …
TIRANA, April 2 – Interior Minister Besfort Lamallari said there is no reason for concern over a possible attack by Iran in Albania. He made the statement after debates in parliament and public reactions to a recent warning. He said authorities have no information indicating a real threat. Lamallari explained …
TIRANA, April 2 – At the discussion held today at schools and libraries, children marked International Children’s Book Day. The date honours the birthday of Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen. His famous stories include The Emperor’s New Clothes, The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, The Little Match Girl, and Thumbelina. …
Finance Minister Petrit Malaj visited the Hani i Hotit border checkpoint. He reviewed customs processes and measures to speed up procedures, increase security, and ensure transparency. Malaj spoke with staff about high traffic, waiting times, and coordination with Montenegrin authorities. He stressed that modernizing customs helps businesses and supports Albania’s …
The cruise ship Sapphire Princess arrived at Saranda Port early today with 2,776 passengers from around the world. Port Director Admir Malaj said this is the second cruise visit this month, following the March 17 stop with 2,600 tourists. Most visitors come from the U.S., UK, Canada, and Spain, with …
TIRANA, April 2 – The Albanian government will double monthly payments for around 11,000 children with disabilities. It will also recognise social and health insurance for about 14,000 caregivers and assistants. Officials announced the measures on World Autism Day during an event in Berat. Health and Social Protection Minister Evis …