Why is this important: Albania faces scrutiny for organized crime groups operating across borders. Strengthened ties with US agencies are seen as key to bolstering SPAK’s capacity to tackle drug trafficking, financial crime, and corruption.

Why is this important: In the May 11 elections, the Socialist Party secured 83 parliamentary seats, Democrats 53, PSD 3, “Mundësia” 2, and “Lëvizja Bashkë” and “Nisma Shqipëria Bëhet” one seat each. For 53 Socialists and 13 Democrats, it will be their first time taking a seat in parliament.

Why is this important: For decades Albania was among Europe’s youngest nations, but in the past five years declining birth rates and emigration have reversed the trend. Falling enrollment numbers are now visible in classrooms across the country.

Why is this important: As a candidate for European Union membership, Albania has made accession its top foreign policy priority. Prime Minister Edi Rama, in his address to the ambassadors, said that joining the EU within this decade must be the central focus of the diplomatic service. “These four years, which coincide with this agenda, are four years in which not a single day must be lost and where time does not wait to prepare all the ground for the support of the decision that will be taken by the European Council for Albania’s membership in the EU,” he said.

Why is this important: This project, launched 14 years ago under the Berisha government, faced repeated delays due to planning and technical issues. Prime Minister Edi Rama called its completion a major victory for residents of the area and for Albania’s road network as a whole.

Why is this important: The match offered coach Sylvinho a chance to test new players ahead of Albania’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Latvia on September 9. With several key absences, the game served both as a risk and an opportunity to build squad depth, though the lack of convincing play has fueled doubts.

Why is this important: Ksamil, often called the “Maldives of Europe,” is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. Yet uncontrolled expansion of umbrellas and sunbeds has left little public space, while prices have risen sharply in recent years. Bringing Ksamil and Dhërmi under municipal administration aims to free public areas and protect the image of Albanian tourism.

Why is this important: The index is a key economic indicator, used in GDP calculations and for planning new construction projects. Rising labor and equipment costs highlight structural pressures in the sector, which continues to struggle with a shortage of skilled workers.

Why is this important: Despite being the second-richest country in Europe for water resources after Norway, Albania has long struggled with mismanagement, leaving consumers facing shortages of drinking water. Until now, supply and distribution have been handled by public companies under municipal control. As part of a reform launched two years ago, the government has opted to centralize management under a national authority.

Why is this important: The construction techniques and epigraphic evidence point to a unique monument from the late Roman period. Measuring 9 by 6 meters, with a funerary chamber 2.40 meters high, the discovery offers new insights into the Roman presence in northern Albania.