Why is this important: According to Blendi Gonxhja, Albania’s Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, the program aims to merge tradition and modernity, offering residents and visitors a comprehensive cultural experience.

Why is this important: The event also marks the official proclamation of Tirana as the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2025, a prestigious title awarded by the Anna Lindh Foundation and the Union for the Mediterranean.

Why is this important: The exhibition is part of the cultural program leading up to Tirana’s designation as Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2025, a year-long celebration of cross-cultural heritage and dialogue in the region.

Why is this important: Now a signature event of Albania’s summer season, UNUM has become a gateway to the country’s rising profile as both a cultural and coastal destination. It’s no longer just the UNUM Festival, it’s UNUM of Shëngjin.

Why is this important: For many Albanians who have lived and worked across borders, the lack of pension agreements has meant lost years of contributions and limited access to income in old age. A pension recognition agreement would allow them to combine contribution periods from both countries and receive benefits from each system proportionally.

Why is this important: The Albania–Serbia rivalry carries political and emotional weight. Following the infamous drone incident in Belgrade in 2014 that halted a match between the two nations, Albanian authorities are taking no chances. Public safety and crowd control are a top priority, as thousands of fans are expected to fill the stadium and surrounding areas.

Why this is important: The European Parliament report positions Albania as a frontrunner among EU candidate states, recognizing the country’s commitment to concluding negotiations by 2027 and achieving full membership by 2030. But it also highlights deep-rooted political polarization—a point Spiropali admitted must be addressed. Her comments reflect growing pressure on Albanian institutions not only to maintain reform momentum but also to ensure national unity in the face of escalating internal attacks on the country’s image abroad.