Why is this important: Macron’s extended stay highlights a deepening strategic relationship between France and Albania. The visit produced new cooperation agreements, financial commitments, and a strong endorsement of Albania’s EU membership prospects.

Why is this important: The summit positions Albania not only as a regional hub for diplomacy, but also as a growing investment destination. Key themes included defense sovereignty, innovation, and the future of European leadership — with major investors publicly endorsing Albania’s potential.

Why is this important: Berisha’s landslide defeat was no surprise. Every major poll for months predicted it. His party’s closed and tightly controlled candidate list — stacked with loyalists — was widely seen as a list designed to keep Berisha safe at the helm of DP in case of loss. Yet, despite the overwhelming pre-election data and the outcome confirming it, Berisha is now claiming electoral manipulation. He has provided no evidence, and his narrative is widely viewed as a tactic to cling to the party’s leadership power rather than face accountability.

Why is this important: It was one of the most significant international events ever held in Albania, elevating the country’s diplomatic standing and role in European politics. Coming mere days after the elections, the Summit amounted to a full European endorsement of Edi Rama’s victory and fourth mandate.

Why this is important: The juxtaposition is hard to miss: while the former prime minister and current opposition leader insists the vote was manipulated by “a narco-regime,” international institutions and Western heads of state are embracing the legitimacy of the elections. Leaders from across Europe, including French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, have publicly congratulated Prime Minister Edi Rama on what they describe as a clear and democratic victory.