“Flagship” Band Performs in Tirana, VanHorn Honors 250 Years of American Independence
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Nancy VanHorn attended the “Battle of the Bands” concert in Tirana featuring the Flagship and the Orchestra of the Albanian Armed Forces. During her opening remarks, VanHorn said the event celebrated “Freedom 250,” a global initiative launched by Donald Trump to honor 250 years of American independence, …
Ura e Kamarës: A Medieval Monument Near Mirakë
Ura e Kamarës is a historic medieval bridge located near the village of Mirakë, along the Elbasan–Librazhd national road. To reach it, visitors follow the old Egnatia Road and pass through a narrow village path. Then they arrive at the bridge site. The bridge measures about 40 meters in length …
Opposition protest held in central Tirana
TIRANA, May 8 – An opposition protest took place in central Tirana on Friday evening, gathering supporters along “Dëshmorët e Kombit” boulevard in front of the Prime Minister’s Office. The demonstra ion started at around 19:30 and formed part of a series of opposition rallies against the government. Unlike previous …
Week in Review: Turning Points and Endless Loops
While some events covered in our selection of Balkan Insight Premium stories this week suggest that possible changes are afoot, other parts of the region seem stuck in the same rut. Original post Here
Himara Triathlon Links Sport and Tourism on the Albanian Riviera
Himara Triathlon will take place on May 10 in the coastal town of Himarë, bringing together professional and amateur athletes. The event combines three disciplines: swimming, cycling, and running. It promotes both competitive sport and active lifestyles. The race will start at Potam Beach with the swimming stage. It will …
Mesi Bridge in Shkodër, a preferred destination for local and foreign tourists
TIRANA, May 8 – Mesi Bridge attracts daily visitors from Albania and abroad. Tourists admire its history, architecture, and cultural heritage value. Prime Minister Edi Rama shared photos from the site in Shkodër and described it as a restored pearl of cultural heritage. The bridge lies about 8 kilometres from …
EU Ambassador Gonzato: Better services and infrastructure at core of “EU4Municipalities II”
TIRANA, May 8 – EU Ambassador to Albania Silvio Gonzato attended today the official launch of the “EU4Municipalities II” project in Durrës. He described the initiative as a concrete programme that brings direct benefits at local level and places citizens at the centre of Albania’s EU integration process. Referring to …
PM Rama: “EU4Municipalities II” a strategic EU investment in local governance modernisation
TIRANA, May 8 – Prime Minister Edi Rama attended today in Durrës the official launch of the “EU4Municipalities II” programme. The initiative aims to strengthen local government and support Albania’s path toward the European Union. The programme will support municipalities through concrete investments. It also aims to strengthen institutional capacities …
Kosova elections on 7 June; deadline closes at CEC, 22 parties in race and three coalitions registered
TIRANA, May 8 – The deadline for political parties in Kosova to notify the Central Election Commission (CEC) on participation or non-participation in elections and coalition formation closed at midnight. The obligation applied to 53 political parties registered in Kosova. The CEC said it received notifications from 22 parties for …
Health Minister Sala presents national strategy for artificial intelligence in healthcare in Milan
TIRANA, May 8 – Minister of Health and Social Welfare Evis Sala presented Albania’s national strategy for the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare in Milan. The presentation focused on oncology during the First Congress on Artificial Intelligence in Oncology. The event was organised by the European Society for Artificial …
Albanian children’s author Rovena Rrozhani has released “Kuq e Zi,” a new book that introduces young readers to Albania’s Independence, the Albanian language and the role of Albanian-language schools in preserving national identity. The book pays tribute to Ismail Qemali and the patriots who fought for Albania’s independence. It also …
“Muji and Halili,” one of the best-known tales of Albanian epic folklore, will soon reach the big screen in a film directed by Turjan Hysko. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja shared footage from the film on social media, highlighting its retelling of a legendary story passed down …
Albanian Justice Minister Toni Gogu met his Turkish counterpart, Akın Gurlek, and Georgia’s Justice Minister, Paata Salia, during the International Justice Summit in Istanbul. The meetings covered judicial cooperation and ways to deepen institutional partnerships. Meanwhile, Gogu highlighted the importance of friendly and constructive relations in strengthening cooperation between the …
Himara continues to attract visitors in autumn with its coastal scenery, historic landmarks and spectacular sunsets over the Ionian Sea. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja shared footage from Himara Castle, where visitors stop to admire the coastline and enjoy the peaceful autumn atmosphere. He encouraged people to …
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos said amendments to the law governing the Kosovo Specialist Chambers violate Kosovo’s fundamental obligations towards the European Union (EU). She called the changes unacceptable on October 12 in Luxembourg. Kos criticised lawmakers for changing legal rules while judicial proceedings remain underway. She warned that …
Albania will experience cloudy weather with sunny intervals this morning and light rain in the afternoon. Temperatures will reach 24 degrees Celsius. The Military Meteorological Service said unstable atmospheric conditions would affect the country on Monday. Skies will remain partly to heavily cloudy, with clearer periods mainly during the first …
British travel outlet Wales Online has recommended Albania as a European holiday destination, highlighting its beaches, natural landscapes and relative lack of crowds. Journalist Amy Jones reports on travel expert Rory King’s recommendation, based on his experience visiting around 80 countries. King described Albania as “absolutely beautiful” and highlighted its …
Albania’s Council of Ministers has approved new rules governing the distribution of electronic identity cards to citizens. The decision amends the existing framework for Albanian citizens’ biometric identity documents. The changes establish procedures for collecting cards, including at application offices in Albania and abroad. The responsible company may also designate …
Shkodra continues to attract foreign tourists with its lakes, rivers, mountains and traditional hospitality. Visitors praise the northern Albanian city for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures and local cuisine. Prime Minister Edi Rama shared a video montage on social media on Sunday, featuring foreign visitors who praised their experiences in …
Albanian internationals returned to club football with strong performances after playing in the UEFA Nations League matches. Rey Manaj led the way with 2 goals and an assist, while Ernest Muçi and Indrit Tuci also scored. Taulant Seferi contributed an assist. Manaj starred in Turkey as Sivasspor defeated Pendikspor 4-1. …