In Focus
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SPAK arrests head of Tirana traffic police and two officers over bribery allegations

Why is this important: The arrest of high-ranking police officers underlines the growing role of SPAK in investigating public sector conduct. While the investigation is ongoing and the accused deny wrongdoing, the case highlights the need for transparency and trust in institutions that directly interact with citizens.
In Focus
1. Albania launches 24/7 traffic monitoring on major highways with smart camera system

Why is this important: The launch of the National Traffic Monitoring Center marks the first phase of a wider government plan to digitally oversee Albania’s entire road network. The initial 200 kilometers under surveillance will expand to cover all 3,650 km of national roads under the authority of the Albanian Road Authority (ARRSH). The system aims to reduce road accidents, ease police workload, and speed up emergency response.
All latest stories
SPAK arrests head of Tirana traffic police and two officers over bribery allegations

Why is this important: The arrest of high-ranking police officers underlines the growing role of SPAK in investigating public sector conduct. While the investigation is ongoing and the accused deny wrongdoing, the case highlights the need for transparency and trust in institutions that directly interact with citizens.
Kosovo’s new Parliament is constituted after two failed attempts but uncertainty remains

Why is this important: The constitution of the new Parliament ends a weeks-long deadlock and allows the formal political process to proceed — though Saturday’s developments also highlighted Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s struggle to secure a majority needed to form a new government.
Valiev and Abakarov honored after medal wins at 2025 European Wrestling Championships

Why is this important: Valiev’s gold is Albania’s first European title in wrestling, adding to his Olympic bronze. Abakarov, a former world champion, returned to the podium, marking an important step in his comeback. Their achievements not only bring international recognition but also set a new standard for the next generation of Albanian wrestlers.
British daily Metro spotlights Tirana as a vibrant, affordable European getaway

Why is this important: Positive international media coverage is crucial for Albania’s growing tourism sector. As Tirana looks to expand its appeal to urban travelers, articles like this reinforce its image as an up-and-coming European destination — blending affordability with cultural depth.
Albania launches 24/7 traffic monitoring on major highways with smart camera system

Why is this important: The launch of the National Traffic Monitoring Center marks the first phase of a wider government plan to digitally oversee Albania’s entire road network. The initial 200 kilometers under surveillance will expand to cover all 3,650 km of national roads under the authority of the Albanian Road Authority (ARRSH). The system aims to reduce road accidents, ease police workload, and speed up emergency response.
Albania to revive arms production industry, starting with Rubik weapons factory

Why is this important: Since the war in Ukraine, Albania has signaled its intent to redevelop its defense manufacturing sector. The country is home to three former weapons and munitions factories, all degraded after years of inactivity. Now, the government says it is in talks with major NATO-aligned defense companies to reopen these plants — not only to meet domestic defense needs but also to export military equipment.
Kristi Ramadani wins two bronze medals at 2025 European Weightlifting Championships

Why is this important: Ramadani’s consistent performance on the continental stage marks a significant milestone for Albania’s weightlifting program and positions him as one of the nation’s top Olympic prospects heading into the next competitive cycle.
UNESCO adds Marubi Archive to Memory of the World Register

Why is this important: This is the first time an element from the city of Shkodra is included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World, recognizing not only the pioneering work of the Marubi family in photography but also the broader historical and cultural identity of Albania captured through their lens. For Shkodra which is working hard to develop its touristic sector it is important that its photographic legacy has received the highest global recognition.
Rama and Berisha both claim victory ahead of May 11 elections

Why is this important: A wave of pre-election polls has projected a clear lead for the ruling Socialist Party (SP), showing it in position to form a government without needing a coalition. But Berisha and his allies dismiss the findings as manipulated, insisting that internal polling favors the opposition. The dispute over numbers sets the stage for a campaign increasingly defined by competing claims of momentum and legitimacy.
Euronews Albania survey: Edi Rama’s Socialists seen as clear favorites ahead of May 11

Why is this important: The data shows a consistent wide gap between the ruling party and its challengers — not only in projected votes but also in public confidence. With just weeks to go, there’s little evidence of momentum on the opposition side, while undecided voters remain sizable.
All latest stories
Kosovo’s new Parliament is constituted after two failed attempts but uncertainty remains

Why is this important: The constitution of the new Parliament ends a weeks-long deadlock and allows the formal political process to proceed — though Saturday’s developments also highlighted Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s struggle to secure a majority needed to form a new government.
Valiev and Abakarov honored after medal wins at 2025 European Wrestling Championships

Why is this important: Valiev’s gold is Albania’s first European title in wrestling, adding to his Olympic bronze. Abakarov, a former world champion, returned to the podium, marking an important step in his comeback. Their achievements not only bring international recognition but also set a new standard for the next generation of Albanian wrestlers.
British daily Metro spotlights Tirana as a vibrant, affordable European getaway

Why is this important: Positive international media coverage is crucial for Albania’s growing tourism sector. As Tirana looks to expand its appeal to urban travelers, articles like this reinforce its image as an up-and-coming European destination — blending affordability with cultural depth.
Albania launches 24/7 traffic monitoring on major highways with smart camera system

Why is this important: The launch of the National Traffic Monitoring Center marks the first phase of a wider government plan to digitally oversee Albania’s entire road network. The initial 200 kilometers under surveillance will expand to cover all 3,650 km of national roads under the authority of the Albanian Road Authority (ARRSH). The system aims to reduce road accidents, ease police workload, and speed up emergency response.
Albania to revive arms production industry, starting with Rubik weapons factory

Why is this important: Since the war in Ukraine, Albania has signaled its intent to redevelop its defense manufacturing sector. The country is home to three former weapons and munitions factories, all degraded after years of inactivity. Now, the government says it is in talks with major NATO-aligned defense companies to reopen these plants — not only to meet domestic defense needs but also to export military equipment.
Kristi Ramadani wins two bronze medals at 2025 European Weightlifting Championships

Why is this important: Ramadani’s consistent performance on the continental stage marks a significant milestone for Albania’s weightlifting program and positions him as one of the nation’s top Olympic prospects heading into the next competitive cycle.
UNESCO adds Marubi Archive to Memory of the World Register

Why is this important: This is the first time an element from the city of Shkodra is included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World, recognizing not only the pioneering work of the Marubi family in photography but also the broader historical and cultural identity of Albania captured through their lens. For Shkodra which is working hard to develop its touristic sector it is important that its photographic legacy has received the highest global recognition.
Rama and Berisha both claim victory ahead of May 11 elections

Why is this important: A wave of pre-election polls has projected a clear lead for the ruling Socialist Party (SP), showing it in position to form a government without needing a coalition. But Berisha and his allies dismiss the findings as manipulated, insisting that internal polling favors the opposition. The dispute over numbers sets the stage for a campaign increasingly defined by competing claims of momentum and legitimacy.
Euronews Albania survey: Edi Rama’s Socialists seen as clear favorites ahead of May 11

Why is this important: The data shows a consistent wide gap between the ruling party and its challengers — not only in projected votes but also in public confidence. With just weeks to go, there’s little evidence of momentum on the opposition side, while undecided voters remain sizable.
IMF warns over strong lek and real estate credit risks in Albania

Why is this important: The ALL’s appreciation has helped contain inflation, but the IMF warns it may harm exports, deter foreign investors, and reduce the economy’s ability to absorb external shocks. The recommendations come at a time when inflationary pressures remain and credit growth — especially in real estate — continues to raise concerns.