Why is this important: The 120-kilometer railway will connect Vorë to Hani i Hotit on the Montenegro border, linking Albania with the European railway network. The project is part of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) extension in the Western Balkans. The upgraded railway will meet EU standards, supporting passenger and freight transport while reducing travel time between Vorë and Hani i Hotit to just two hours.

Why is this important: The increase in FDI underscores Albania’s growing appeal as a destination for international capital, particularly in sectors like real estate, energy, and financial intermediation. Real estate accounted for 20% of investments, driven by foreign buyers who purchased 27% of homes sold this year, largely in Tirana and coastal areas. Existing investors reinvested €234 million, a 15% year-on-year increase, reflecting confidence in Albania’s market stability. However, a 17% drop in capital injections compared to last year signals the need to diversify investments across more industries.

Why is this important: The conference underscores Albania’s growing leadership in digital governance within the Western Balkans. It highlights the country’s ability to implement cutting-edge technologies that streamline public services, improve transparency, and combat corruption. Albania’s significant progress, particularly during the pandemic, demonstrated how digital platforms like e-Albania have become vital tools for citizen-state interaction.

Why is this important: While many international airports experienced a decline in passenger numbers following the COVID-19 pandemic, Rinas has bucked the trend, consistently showing year-on-year growth. The airport continues to lead regional rankings in passenger increases, reflecting Albania’s rising profile as a travel and business destination. It is also playing a significant role in Albania’s tourism boom.

Why does it matter: Higher education is pivotal for equipping the workforce with skills needed to drive innovation, productivity, and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global economy. For Albania, where significant strides have been made in expanding access to higher education, the challenge now lies in aligning academic outcomes with labor market demands.