Analysis: Corruption probe involving former prime minister seen as litmus test for Albania’s new justice system
TIRANA, Nov. 2, 2023 – Albania’s former prime minister, Sali Berisha, is being investigated for “passive corruption” by Albania’s Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK), with a specialized court ruling that he cannot leave the country and must present himself to court authorities twice a month. The same …
Bank of Albania increases key interest rate, again, aiming to tackle inflation
TIRANA, Nov. 2, 2023 – Albania’s central bank supervisory council has announced another hike in Bank of Albania’s key interest rate, up by 0.25 percentage points, bringing it to a rate of 3.25 percent. Inflation has seen a declining trend in 2023, but it is still higher than what the …
Elez Biberaj announces retirement from VoA after 43 years of service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 2, 2023 – Elez Biberaj, the prominent Albanian-American journalist, is retiring after an illustrious 43-year career at the Voice of America (VoA), according to a message he sent to colleagues. He will continue serving as the VoA Director of the Eurasia Division until the end of year. VoA …
New investigation offers proof Russians owned shell company that paid for Basha’s 2017 lobbying in Washington
TIRANA, Nov. 2, 2023 – A new investigation published Thursday by Finance Uncovered in cooperation with the BBC has offered proof that Russians were behind the company that paid for lobbying in Washington that led to a brief meeting and a photo of Lulzim Basha, serving as leader of the …
Albert Rakipi and the College of Europe: The bold idea that brought EU’s venerable institution to Albania
How a think-tanker’s vision, backed by Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, secured the College of Europe’s presence in Tirana. TIRANA, Oct. 26, 2023 – More than a year ago, Albert Rakipi, a prominent figure in Albania’s international relations and think tank circles, contemplated a pressing question. With the European Union …
Albania’s removal from FATF money laundering gray list met with optimism
TIRANA, Oct. 29 – Albania’s recent removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) gray list of countries grappling with money laundering deficiencies has garnered cautious optimism, with financial experts emphasizing the need for continued vigilance. The decision, made by FATF, an intergovernmental organization created through a G7 initiative, has …
Two drug dealers arrested in Lezha, Mirdita
Lezha Police has cracked down on two more cases of selling narcotics, in doses, in Lezha and Mirdita, as informed this Sunday. In the city of Lezha, Salvator Luka, a resident of Pukë, while in Mirdita, Ndue Rregji, was arrested. During this operation, two citizens were handcuffed and 68 doses …
Mayor Veliaj’s statement as Tirana prepares for halloween
Atmosphere on the eve of the Halloween holiday is already more tangible for all the fans, adults and children. In the framework of this day, the Mayor of Tirana Erion Veliaj shared this Sunday morning pictures from “ZooParkTirana” on social networks. “GOOD MORNING. From ZooParkTirana, which was buzzing with kids …
Begaj congratulates counterpart Erdogan on Turkey’s National Day
President of the Republic, Bajram Begaj sent this Sunday a congratulatory telegram on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Turkey to the President of the Republic of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan. In his telegram, President Begaj expressed full confidence in the excellent future …
Two arrested for possession of weed, cannabis seeds in Gjirokastra
Police of Gjirokastra have handcuffed two citizens, who kept narcotic substances and seeds in their apartment, with the intention of selling them. The arrested are Elis Ballaxhia and Daniel Hazizaj, 35 and 25 years old, both residents of Gjirokastra. During checks, the officers seized 236 grams of cocaine, 253 cannabis …
Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj stated that no official investment project for the development of the Zvërnec area has been submitted to the government. She clarified that authorities have granted only a permit for environmental studies and assessments. Speaking in a media interview, Ibrahimaj called for a fact-based …
Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj said authorities are currently conducting environmental studies for the proposed investment in the Zvërnec area. Speaking to ABC News, Ibrahimaj stressed that any future development must comply with environmental laws and EU standards. She said these rules protect the lagoon and the surrounding …
Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj rejected criticism from Democratic Party MP Enno Bozdo about Albania’s economic situation. She argued that economic indicators show clear improvement compared with previous years. During a parliamentary debate, Bozdo raised concerns about income levels, structural reforms, pensions, and social assistance. He noted that …
Deputy Prime Minister Delina Ibrahimaj stated that the proposed €4 billion investment in Zvërnec could become a major driver of economic growth. She said the project could create jobs, boost tourism, raise service standards, and attract further investment across the country. In a social media post, Koçiu pointed to neighboring …
Prime Minister Edi Rama said the planned investment in Zvërnec will combine economic development with environmental protection. He highlighted the role of landscape architect Dong Yugan, who has joined the project team. Rama introduced Yugan during the Bread & Heart Festival in Tirana. He noted that the investors selected him …
Prime Minister Edi Rama will take part in the EU–Western Balkans Summit on June 5, 2026, in Tivat. According to Albania’s Media and Information Agency, the summit will bring together leaders from the European Union and the Western Balkans. Participants will reaffirm their strategic partnership and discuss the region’s European …
Prime Minister Edi Rama met today in Tirana with President Gitanas Nausėda. The meeting focused on strengthening relations between Albania and Lithuania. Both sides discussed closer political and economic cooperation. President Nausėda reaffirmed Lithuania’s support for Albania’s EU membership bid. He expressed backing for Albania’s progress in the European integration …
Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj presented in Parliament the draft law to ratify the social security agreement between Albania and Poland. First, she said the agreement strengthens social protection for Albanian citizens inside and outside the country. In addition, she stressed that the deal guarantees recognition of work …
TIRANA, June 4 – Italian media outlet “Si Viaggia” says June marks an ideal period for choosing travel destinations. It describes the month as the start of the summer season. It links the period to coastal and mountain travel choices. In addition, the publication says travel experts suggest several destinations …
Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha stated in Parliament that Albania leads the Western Balkans in implementing reforms under the EU Growth Plan. First, he said the government views the EU Growth Plan and the National Reform Agenda as real opportunities to modernize the state and accelerate EU …