Why is this important: Though no officials decision has been made about Veliaj’s status and he remains mayor of Tirana, the opposition is using the episode to push a narrative of internal conflict within the ruling Socialist Party. Berisha’s remarks reflect a broader strategy to portray instability in Rama’s camp ahead of the May 11 parliamentary elections.

Why is this important: The Special Court’s earlier refusal to allow Thaçi to attend the funeral sparked widespread outrage among Albanians in Kosovo and abroad. The court’s last-minute permission for a brief visit is seen as insufficient and emblematic of what many call a pattern of selective justice against Kosovo’s wartime leaders.

Why is this important: Albania has never earned a point against England in six previous encounters. Facing one of the world’s top-ranked squads, the national team is aiming to defy the odds, despite a depleted roster. The opening match is key for momentum in a tough qualification group.

Why is this important: Prime Minister Edi Rama is pushing for Albania’s EU accession negotiations to be completed by 2027 and full membership by 2030, warning that failure to stay on track could jeopardize the country’s landmark justice reform. Without the oversight of EU institutions, Rama said, both the opposition or even future leaders within the Socialist Party could be tempted to undermine the rule of law.

Why is this important: The conservation efforts in Voskopojë are set to boost tourism by preserving its historic churches and monasteries. These restored sites will attract both local and international visitors, showcasing the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage. As tourism grows, it will help support the local economy while ensuring these cultural treasures are protected for future generations.

Why is this important: A similar geological challenge delayed the completion of the Murrizi Tunnel on the Arbër Highway to seven years. However, during an inspection visit with Prime Minister Edi Rama, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure Belinda Balluku stated that lessons learned from the Murrizi Tunnel have enabled engineers to apply advanced stabilization techniques. This includes reinforcing the tunnel structure by injecting concrete and steel to prevent soil displacement. Officials project that tunnel excavation will be completed by the end of 2025, with the entire Elbasan-Qafë Thanë highway operational by spring 2026.

Why is this important: Elbasan is one of Albania’s largest electoral districts, with around 350,000 registered voters, although only 166,048 participated in the last election. Rama’s push for an overwhelming victory in this region is part of a broader strategy to consolidate Socialist dominance and ensure uninterrupted progress in Albania’s EU accession process.

Why is this important: From May 21 to 31, for 11 consecutive nights, over 100 artists from countries such as Azerbaijan, Mexico, Morocco, Greece, Turkey, Italy, France, and many more will perform contemporary dance, performance art, music, spoken poetry, and other creative activities.

Why is this important: Declared a protected area in 2022, Porto Palermo Natural Park covers nearly 1,695 hectares, with 88% of its area being marine territory. The park is home to rare and valuable species, including Euphorbia dendroides, Lithophylum byssoides, and Posidonia oceanica meadows, which serve as vital ecosystems for marine biodiversity and contribute to the conservation of Albania’s underwater heritage.