Why is this important: Over three decades, Albanian lawmakers have turned to the Venice Commission for opinions on key constitutional and legal issues — from the first efforts to draft a new Constitution in 1993 to recent cases such as that of the former foreign minister where the Commission was asked to weigh the balance between parliamentary independence and Constitutional Court rulings. Although the Commission’s opinions are advisory, they have been crucial in shaping Albania’s constitutional and institutional development.

Why is this important: The upcoming protest has become the latest flashpoint between Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Kosovo’s ruling Vetëvendosje movement, led by Albin Kurti. In an unexpected move, Vetëvendosje launched a harsh attack against Rama, accusing him of hypocrisy for supporting the protest despite once backing the creation of the Specialist Chambers — the very court now trying UÇK leaders.

Why is this important: Kosovo continues to miss out on millions of euros in EU funding due to its ongoing institutional crisis, which prevents it from formalizing the required agreements with the EU. While other countries move forward with economic support and integration projects, Kosovo’s political paralysis means it remains outside one of the region’s most significant financial initiatives.

Why is this important: The EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans aims to double the region’s GDP within the next decade, marking one of the EU’s most ambitious economic commitments in recent years. At the opening, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called on European investors to seize the opportunity: “The time to invest in the Western Balkans is now. Returns are promising, and the future of the region lies within our Union.”

Why is this important: Adams’s visit reflects growing U.S.-Albania cooperation and recognition of the strong Albanian-American community in New York, home to more than 60,000 ethnic Albanians. The trip is also seen as a step toward expanding tourism and direct economic links between the two countries.