Why is this important: The growth in agricultural exports reflects both the increasing competitiveness of Albanian products in international markets and the success of government initiatives to support farmers. Tourism exposure has also contributed by promoting Albanian goods abroad. This performance aligns with the government’s broader objective to reach $1 billion in agricultural exports by 2030, demonstrating that agriculture remains a critical pillar of the economy.

Why is this important: The Italy-Albania agreement has generated some controversy, in Albania and beyond. While in Europe the debate is whether the pact represents an effective response to migration and whether it respects the rights of migrants, in Albania the opposition argues that it compromises national sovereignty. However, despite the controversy, many EU countries are observing the implementation of the pact closely. As migration becomes a major political issue, EU countries are increasingly searching for solutions outside their borders. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has referenced the agreement as a positive model for addressing migrant flows and human trafficking.

Why is this important: While protests within Parliament have occurred on both the left and right throughout 33 years of political pluralism, the act of removing chairs from the chamber, dousing them with gasoline, and setting them on fire is unprecedented in Albanian parliamentary history. Moreover, this protest was directed at a judicial decision—a separate, independent branch of power. According to opposition MPs, who have been out of power for 11 years, Prime Minister Edi Rama exerts control over all branches of government, including the executive, legislative, and judiciary, leaving them no other form of protest.