OSCE representative: Free and independent journalism is the foundation of democratic society, weak media undermines national security
TIRANA, May 18 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Jan Braathu spoke at a media freedom conference. He said free, independent and secure journalism represents a foundation for society and democracy. He also said ethical and transparent journalism is essential for any democratic system. He stressed that free …
Shkodër Historical Museum Welcomes Many Visitors in a Warm Atmosphere
Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images from the Shkodër Historical Museum, showing it filled with local and foreign visitors. He described the museum as having a lively and pleasant atmosphere. The museum began its organization in 1947 under the name “People’s Museum” and was fully established in 1949. It was …
FM Hoxha: Safer environment for media professionals essential for stronger democratic institutions
TIRANA, May 18 – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha took part in the 11th OSCE South East Europe Media Conference in Tirana. The event is titled “Strengthening Journalism as a Public Good” and focuses on media freedom and journalist safety. He said Albania remains committed to strengthening …
PM Rama announces e-Albania 2.0 platform: New step in digital transformation of public services, easier access for persons with disabilities
TIRANA, May 18 – e-Albania 2.0 introduces a redesigned platform for public services in Albania. It enables easier access for citizens. It also improves usability for persons with disabilities. In a Facebook post, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced the platform. He described it as a new step in the digital …
Albania participates in insurance supervision meeting in Warsaw
TIRANA, May 18 – Albania took part in the 25th meeting of the Central, Eastern and South Eastern Europe Insurance Supervision Initiative in Warsaw, Poland. The meeting brought together supervisory authorities from across the region. The delegation of the Albanian Financial Supervisory Authority included Merita Gurabardhi, Aranit Muja and Lusjana …
Forensic Science Institute becomes full member of European forensic network
TIRANA, May 18 – The Forensic Science Institute took part for the first time as a full member of the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes in Zurich, Switzerland. The meeting gathered directors of European forensic science institutes. Institute Director Perlat Çullaj presented the institute’s role and development. He outlined …
Minister Gonxhja: Museum Week brings together culture, history and art
TIRANA. May 18 – Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja announced the “Museum Week 2026” initiative in a social media post. He said the event will take place from 18 to 24 May across Albania. During the week, museums, archaeological parks and cultural heritage sites will open their …
Defense Minister Nufi at Civil Emergencies Support Base: We ensure faster response across the country
TIRANA, May 18 – Defence Minister Ermal Nufi visited the Civil Emergencies Support Base. He met Armed Forces personnel engaged in emergency response operations. The visit focused on wildfire preparedness ahead of the summer season. Chief of the General Staff Lieutenant General Arben Kingji attended the event. National Civil Protection …
President Begaj meets Higher Security and Defence Course, says Western Balkans stability key to regional security
TIRANA, May 18 – President Bajram Begaj met participants of the Higher Security and Defence Course held at the Armed Forces Defence and Security College. He praised the college for organising the programme. He also highlighted the spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding among participants. In addition, he stressed the …
OTP Bank Albania inaugurates new Private Banking premises in Tirana
Tirana Times, May 18, 2026 – OTP Bank Albania has inaugurated new premises dedicated to the Private Banking segment, unveiling an exclusive space designed for clients seeking personalized service and advanced financial standards. Located in the heart of Tirana, the premises have been designed in line with OTP Group standards, …
Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu has highlighted the tourism and economic potential of Gjinar, in the Elbasan region, describing the Mountain Package as a key opportunity to attract investment, create new businesses and increase visitor numbers. Koçiu stressed that Gjinar’s natural beauty provides a strong foundation for tourism. However, local …
Women in Vlora have joined the Pink October campaign, urging women and girls to prioritize breast health and get regular screenings. Prime Minister Edi Rama shared messages from 14 women working in the arts, sports, journalism, local government and other fields. They called for greater awareness and stressed that early …
Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination Genta Tafa met with UN Resident Coordinator in Albania Ingrid Macdonald on Monday to discuss equality, human rights and stronger safeguards against discrimination. The meeting focused on cooperation between institutions to promote equal treatment and prevent discrimination. Both officials exchanged views on shared priorities and …
Albania’s National Investment Scheme is opening new opportunities for farmers, agro-processors and agrotourism businesses by supporting investment and improving efficiency across the agricultural sector. Through grants from the Agency for Agricultural and Rural Development (AZHBR), farmers can purchase agricultural machinery to streamline their work and improve productivity. Prime Minister Edi …
The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development signed a cooperation agreement today with Aleksandër Xhuvani University in Elbasan. The agreement aims to connect academic knowledge with the needs of agriculture and rural development. Agriculture Minister Andis Salla and university rector Prof. Dr. Elvora Fetahu signed the agreement. Salla said the …
Infrastructure and Energy Minister Enea Karakaçi announced progress on the Kombinat–Ndroq–Plepa road, a southern alternative route from Tirana towards Durrës and the coast. The Albanian Road Authority has completed the first 5-kilometre section to Peza and formally taken it over. It has also finalised the contract for the next 9 …
Korça welcomes the 13th International Short Film Festival for five nights of screenings at Majestik Cinema and the Digital Arts Gallery. The programme features 100 films from around the world, covering diverse themes and perspectives. It also includes three programmes for children. Festival director Gledis Bica said this year’s new …
The Parliamentary Committee on Internal Affairs and Defence reviewed proposed amendments to the law on managing seized and confiscated assets. Deputy Interior Minister Xhemal Qefalia presented the bill. The amendments would extend management rules to assets seized or confiscated by central and local government bodies, including illegal buildings. They would …
Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti announced on Tuesday that he had requested answers from the responsible institutions regarding the murder of Arlinda Zekaj in Peja. Kurti emphasized that he had given the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Justice 54 hours to complete a report aimed at identifying …
President of the Republic Bajram Begaj has invited representatives of parliamentary groups to consultations on October 30 regarding the date of the 2027 local elections, according to sources from the Presidency. The meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for consultations with parliamentary groups before the date of the upcoming …