News in short
Maritime Police rescue four foreign nationals in Albanian waters
Published on September 19, 2024
In Focus
1. Albania’s SEPA membership: a major milestone in EU integration
September 17, 2024
Why is it important
SEPA membership will streamline cross-border euro payments, making them as easy and affordable as domestic transactions. This alignment with EU financial regulations, particularly those related to the free movement of capital (Chapter 4 of the Acquis Communautaire), strengthens Albania’s position as it works toward full EU membership. The move will not only lower the cost of financial transactions but also embed Albania into the European financial and regulatory framework, marking significant progress in its EU integration journey.
All latest stories
Maritime Police rescue four foreign nationals in Albanian waters
Published on September 19, 2024
Police officers arrested for theft and abuse of power
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is it important
The operation highlights ongoing efforts to ensure accountability within Albania’s police forces, reinforcing public trust as the institution undergoes leadership renewal.
Parliament approves law requiring medical students required to work in health system before graduation
Published on September 19, 2024
President Begaj welcomes new ambassadors of Czech Republic and Hungary
Published on September 19, 2024
EU forms Advisory Committee to accelerate Western Balkans’ membership bid
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is this important
Albanian PM Edi Rama and European Economic and Social Committee President Oliver Röpke announced the initiative at a press conference. Rama stressed, “It brings us a lot of new energy that we have been able to create the Joint Advisory Committee, which is not only proof of our commitment but also of our strong belief that the integration process is not just a matter for the government but for all citizens, including civil society. It allows us to show our citizens and stakeholders, not just through our words but through this institution, how important it is that the path to EU membership is one that involves all of civil society, not just a few actors.”
“Drop of Water”: Albania’s official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards
Published on September 19, 2024
Berisha threatens journalists amid corruption allegations
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is this significant
Berisha has a long-standing record of targeting critical media and journalists, but his latest threats against those investigating his legal troubles are especially alarming. Issuing such menacing statements while under house arrest raises serious concerns about the lack of judicial oversight. These threats not only undermine press freedom but also pose potential risks to the integrity of the legal process, as they could intimidate witnesses and others involved in his case. The authorities’ apparent tolerance of this behavior is troubling and calls into question the enforcement of judicial conditions.
Bank of Albania strengthens measures for non-banking institutions
Published on September 19, 2024
Why does it matter?
The recent regulatory changes by the Bank of Albania are crucial, especially following the 2023 microcredit scandal involving companies like MCA. Borrowers were deceived through hidden fees, manipulated property auctions, and excessive interest rates, causing financial distress. By tightening controls on interest rates and loan approvals, the new regulations aim to prevent such abuses and restore public trust in non-banking institutions. The focus on transparency and stronger financial assessments will protect consumers from predatory practices, ensuring a more stable and responsible lending environment, essential for Albania’s financial system.
Foreign direct investments in Albania reach €749 million in first half of 2024
Published on September 19, 2024
Why does it matter?
FDI is crucial for Albania’s long-term economic development. It injects fresh capital that helps drive infrastructure projects, supports the growth and expansion of businesses, and creates new job opportunities, boosting overall employment levels. Furthermore, a significant rise in FDI reflects increasing confidence from international investors in Albania’s economic potential, political stability, and legal framework, which can pave the way for more diversified investments and further integration into the global economy.
Three winning designs selected for new public administration buildings
Published on September 18, 2024
Why is this significant
The competition comes as part of the Government’s broader strategy of improve public infrastructure and working conditions for the public administration.
All latest stories
Police officers arrested for theft and abuse of power
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is it important
The operation highlights ongoing efforts to ensure accountability within Albania’s police forces, reinforcing public trust as the institution undergoes leadership renewal.
Parliament approves law requiring medical students required to work in health system before graduation
Published on September 19, 2024
President Begaj welcomes new ambassadors of Czech Republic and Hungary
Published on September 19, 2024
EU forms Advisory Committee to accelerate Western Balkans’ membership bid
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is this important
Albanian PM Edi Rama and European Economic and Social Committee President Oliver Röpke announced the initiative at a press conference. Rama stressed, “It brings us a lot of new energy that we have been able to create the Joint Advisory Committee, which is not only proof of our commitment but also of our strong belief that the integration process is not just a matter for the government but for all citizens, including civil society. It allows us to show our citizens and stakeholders, not just through our words but through this institution, how important it is that the path to EU membership is one that involves all of civil society, not just a few actors.”
“Drop of Water”: Albania’s official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards
Published on September 19, 2024
Berisha threatens journalists amid corruption allegations
Published on September 19, 2024
Why is this significant
Berisha has a long-standing record of targeting critical media and journalists, but his latest threats against those investigating his legal troubles are especially alarming. Issuing such menacing statements while under house arrest raises serious concerns about the lack of judicial oversight. These threats not only undermine press freedom but also pose potential risks to the integrity of the legal process, as they could intimidate witnesses and others involved in his case. The authorities’ apparent tolerance of this behavior is troubling and calls into question the enforcement of judicial conditions.
Bank of Albania strengthens measures for non-banking institutions
Published on September 19, 2024
Why does it matter?
The recent regulatory changes by the Bank of Albania are crucial, especially following the 2023 microcredit scandal involving companies like MCA. Borrowers were deceived through hidden fees, manipulated property auctions, and excessive interest rates, causing financial distress. By tightening controls on interest rates and loan approvals, the new regulations aim to prevent such abuses and restore public trust in non-banking institutions. The focus on transparency and stronger financial assessments will protect consumers from predatory practices, ensuring a more stable and responsible lending environment, essential for Albania’s financial system.
Foreign direct investments in Albania reach €749 million in first half of 2024
Published on September 19, 2024
Why does it matter?
FDI is crucial for Albania’s long-term economic development. It injects fresh capital that helps drive infrastructure projects, supports the growth and expansion of businesses, and creates new job opportunities, boosting overall employment levels. Furthermore, a significant rise in FDI reflects increasing confidence from international investors in Albania’s economic potential, political stability, and legal framework, which can pave the way for more diversified investments and further integration into the global economy.
Three winning designs selected for new public administration buildings
Published on September 18, 2024
Why is this significant
The competition comes as part of the Government’s broader strategy of improve public infrastructure and working conditions for the public administration.
Tirana’s International Dance Festival returns with “Swan Lake”
Published on September 18, 2024