Exclusive / Gonzato: There is no blockage in Albania’s EU integration processes
This Thursday, the EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, spoke to Euronews Albania in an interview with moderator Mirela Milori. Gonzato discussed Albania’s integration process and stated that there is no blockage in the process. On the other hand, he emphasized that these are confidential discussions in accordance with the …
Foreign Interference and Election Observation in Hungary’s 2026 Parliamentary Vote
by David J. Kostelancik Tirana Times, April 09, 2026 – Hungary’s parliamentary elections, scheduled for April 12, 2026, are unfolding in an environment shaped not only by domestic political competition but also by broader geopolitical tensions and debates about external influence. Charges of election interference have involved disinformation from state-controlled media, allegations …
Over 100 athletes compete in Albania’s national tournament for people with intellectual disabilities
TIRANA, April 9 – Over 100 athletes from across Albania joined the National Athletics and Table Tennis Tournament for people with intellectual disabilities. The event promotes inclusive sports and social equality. Athletes competed with energy and respect. They showed how sports can overcome social and physical barriers. The Albanian National …
Speaker Peleshi: Strengthening parliamentary cooperation with the Bundestag
TIRANA, April 9 – Parliament Speaker Niko Peleshi met with Gunnar Schellenberger, President of the Saxony-Anhalt State Parliament. They focused on enhancing inter-parliamentary ties and boosting economic cooperation between Albania and Germany. Peleshi highlighted the need to intensify collaboration between the Albanian Parliament and the Bundestag, and to expand exchanges …
“Islands”: Albania rises on tourism map as Ksamil draws Caribbean comparisons
TIRANA, April 9 – Albania is gaining attention as a beach destination in Europe. An article in the U.S. travel magazine Islands highlights the coastal village of Ksamil as a rising hotspot. The report asks which European destination offers Caribbean-style beaches at lower cost in 2026. It points to Albania’s …
Albania women’s team targets strong start against Wales in 2027 World Cup qualifiers
TIRANA, April 9 – Albania’s women’s national team continued preparations for the 2027 World Cup qualifiers. The team held its latest training session at the “House of Football.” Albania will face Wales on April 14 at 20:15 at “Stok Cae Ras” stadium. Players are following an intensive training program ahead …
Economy and Innovation Minister: New law aims to boost strategic investments in tourist ports
TIRANA, April 9 – Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj presented a draft law to amend the framework on tourist ports. She said the initiative will simplify procedures for strategic investments in resorts, marinas, and tourist ports. Ibrahimaj said Albania has recorded strong tourism growth. The country welcomed 6.4 million …
PM Rama: Construction sector reflects Albania’s economic transformation
TIRANA, April 9 – Prime Minister Edi Rama said the construction sector plays a key role in Albania’s economic and social transformation. He made the remarks during a meeting with business representatives on wage growth, alongside Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj. Rama rejected claims that link the sector to …
Spring Fair in Korça draws crowds with artisans and festive activities
TIRANA, April 9 – Korça’s central square in front of the Orthodox Cathedral came alive with the Spring Fair ahead of Easter. The event, now a local tradition, brings together artisans and visitors from across the country. Stalls showcase handmade crafts, traditional products, and souvenirs, creating a lively and authentic …
Gonxhja: New plan to revitalize historic areas in Shkodra
Tourism, Culture, and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja visited the Gjuhadol neighborhood in Shkodra. Mayor Benet Beci joined him. The area includes many historic buildings. Authorities plan to revitalize them and restore their identity. Gonxhja said they will implement a structured intervention plan. The plan targets historic zones and centers. The …
At the opening of the Berlin Process summit in Montenegro on Thursday, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that Montenegro could join the EU by 2028, and he urged regional cooperation. Original post Here
Jobseekers from specific groups will receive financial support to attend vocational training courses. The scheme will also cover transport costs. Under a Council of Ministers decision proposed by the Minister of Economy and Innovation, trainees will receive 50% of the minimum wage for each lesson hour attended. Those living more …
The government has approved new rules for business registration and data publication through the National Business Centre. Businesses must obtain an NVE certificate from the National Economic Chamber. The certificate identifies the type of economic activity a business carries out. New businesses must submit it through the e-Albania portal within …
Albania’s National Institute of Cultural Heritage (IKTK), in cooperation with the Faculty of Geology and Mining at the Polytechnic University of Tirana, has conducted geophysical surveys in Trojas village, near Belsh, to investigate potential archaeological remains. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Blendi Gonxhja said the surveys build on earlier …
The United Kingdom has announced up to £5 million in new support to help Western Balkan countries strengthen cooperation against migrant smuggling and organised immigration crime. The funding will provide British training and expertise to improve regional information sharing and combat the exploitation of migrant workers. UK Minister for Europe …
Albania honours Queen Geraldine on October 22, marking 24 years since her passing in 2002. Known as the “White Rose of Hungary,” Geraldine arrived in Albania in December 1937 following an invitation from the sisters of King Zog I. The king had seen her photograph at a ball in Budapest. …
The Assembly has approved Adea Pirdeni’s appointment as Minister of Public Administration, with 76 votes in favour and none against or abstaining. In a message shared today, Pirdeni stressed the importance of dialogue, respect for the law and institutions, and shared responsibility as Albania moves towards European Union membership. She …
Albania registered 1,985 new businesses in September 2026, according to the National Business Centre. Tirana accounted for 1,085 registrations, or 54.7% of the national total. Durrës followed with 212, while Vlora recorded 132. Trade led the sectors attracting new businesses, with 464 registrations. Accommodation and food services followed with 220, …
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos says the coming weeks and months will bring decisive moments for Western Balkan countries pursuing European Union membership. Speaking ahead of the Berlin Process summit in Montenegro, Kos highlighted different priorities across the region. Montenegro must complete its accession negotiations, Serbia faces upcoming elections, …
Albania’s customs administration collected around 185.9 billion ALL in revenue from January to September 2026, an increase of 7.2 billion ALL compared with the same period in 2025. The General Directorate of Customs said the results represented 104% of the revenue target. It described the first nine months of 2026 …