Why is this important: Erion Veliaj’s legal team is expected to use the Venice Commission’s findings to argue that the government’s decision to dismiss him violates fundamental democratic principles. The Commission states clearly: suspension or removal of elected officials is an extraordinary measure — not to be used unless serious misconduct is proven. This case could set a precedent for how local autonomy is protected in Albania.

Why is this important: The move marks a rare reversal for Syria, which had previously backed Serbia’s stance on Kosovo and opposed its independence. For Kosovo, it is a key win in its ongoing push for global recognition — especially from countries aligned with Russia, Serbia’s main backer. The recognition came with Saudi Arabia’s direct mediation, highlighting Riyadh’s growing role as a geopolitical broker.

Why is this important: The meeting marks a major milestone in strengthening strategic ties between the two countries, with agreements expected to deepen cooperation in energy exports, migration management, and social protections for Albanians in Italy.

Why is this important: This marked one of the strongest public endorsements yet for political unity on EU matters, with both government and opposition members praising the national consensus behind membership goals—even as sharp disagreements flared over justice issues and electoral legitimacy.

Why is this important: Rama’s remarks reflect growing unease among some European leaders about the militarization of EU policy in response to global tensions. Speaking on a panel titled “Is Humanity Going in the Right Direction?”, he criticized what he called a “deeply wrong approach” by the European Union.

Why is this important: Veliaj is challenging both the Council of Ministers’ decision to dismiss him—issued in late September upon proposal by the Tirana Municipal Council—and the presidential decree setting the date for partial elections in Tirana. The mayor argues his dismissal was unconstitutional since his absence from office for over three months was due to his pretrial detention, an “objective reason” that, he claims, cannot justify removal from office. Just a week after the dismissal decree, Veliaj filed a second appeal, arguing that the president should have waited for the Constitutional Court’s ruling before calling new elections.

Why is this important: Under Dumani’s leadership, SPAK has launched and pursued high-profile investigations involving senior politicians and figures from organized crime, making his report one of the most closely watched sessions of the year. The hearing also marked the first time Dumani and opposition leader Sali Berisha, currently indicted for corruption, appeared in the same parliamentary hall. Berisha has accused Dumani of leading what he calls “a political justice campaign” and frequently labels him “the head of organized crime.”

Why is this important: Kurti’s comments came a day after his third-term proposal failed in parliament, receiving only 56 votes in favor, five short of the required majority. He suggested that Kosovo could head to elections in both winter and spring, given that the presidential election is due in April 2026. Yet, observers say this warning underscores a pattern of political brinkmanship that has characterized Kurti’s leadership since his rise to power.

Why is this important: This would mark the formal completion of the chapter-opening stage in Albania’s EU integration talks, putting the country among the frontrunners in the Western Balkans enlargement process. The cluster on agriculture and food safety is considered one of the most technically demanding, requiring alignment with complex EU standards on production, inspection, and consumer protection.