Why is this important: Relations with Greece are important to Albania, but they have been quite complicated at time because of a host of unresolved issues. In recent years, the Beleri case has caused a chill in diplomatic ties, and only recently has there been signs of a thaw. Berisha’s remarks and the fact that he was sitting next to Beleri make it unlikely that they will help him electorally. Most Albanians do not seem to have a favorable opinion of Beleri and there is a widespread perception among Albanians that the maritime deal he signed was detrimental to Albania and gave away 300 square miles of sea to Greece. Instead, it appears more probable that Berisha is reaching out to the Greek government in a continued effort to ease his international isolation.

Why is this important: The wartime law, established by Greece through a royal decree on November 10, 1940, was enacted after Italy declared war on Greece and launched an invasion through the then-annexed Albanian territory. This decree categorized Albanians as enemy nationals, leading to the conservatory confiscation of their properties across Greece, which were placed under state administration. Although the Greek government decided to lift the law on August 28, 1987, it was never officially published in the Government Gazette, leaving its legal status ambiguous and its effects unresolved.

Why is this important: While EU leaders repeated their promises of military aid and Ukraine’s future integration into the bloc, Rama challenged them to face a new reality. With a new U.S. administration in power, he argued that the strategic landscape has changed, yet Europe continues operating as if nothing has happened. His remarks emphasized the need for Europe to adopt a more unified diplomatic approach rather than relying solely on Washington’s lead.

Why is this important: Albania has set an ambitious goal to become a net energy exporter by 2030. The country, along with Norway, is one of the two European nations generating electricity entirely from renewable sources. A new joint energy venture with Masdar signed during the visit, aims to support Albania’s long-term energy strategy, and expand its role in regional energy markets.

Why is this important: The controversy has deepened the already growing tensions surrounding SPAK’s investigation into Veliaj, bringing to light concerns over conflicts of interest, ethical breaches, and alleged intimidation. The public debate now extends beyond Veliaj’s legal battle, raising broader concerns about prosecutorial conduct and judicial impartiality.

Why is this important: Albania has been one of Ukraine’s strongest diplomatic allies, consistently supporting international efforts to counter Russian aggression. During its non-permanent two year mandate at the United Nations Security Council, Albania played an important role as co-penholder with the United States on Ukraine. Hasani’s message confirms that despite the changing position of the US, Albania’s support has not shifted.

Why is this important: The construction of the Murriz Tunnel has been a long and challenging process, marked by delays and technical difficulties. The concession contract for the Arbri Road was signed in 2018, while work on the tunnel began a year later, in May 2019. However, difficult geological conditions, landslides, and engineering challenges caused significant slowdowns. What was initially expected to be a straightforward project turned into a seven-year saga for just 3.7 kilometers of tunnel.

Why is this important: The SPAK strategy is the latest move by the institution to ignite intense political and legal debate over the boundaries of its authority. While some civil society actors have expressed support, the task force—set to deploy prosecutors and investigators in the field during the electoral campaign—has drawn sharp criticism from politicians and jurists who argue it constitutes an overreach into political affairs and an infringement on citizens’ political rights. Prime Minister Edi Rama has openly opposed the initiative, calling it a “lapse in judgment” and insisting that political parties cannot be placed under surveillance during an election period. Others have pointed out that surveillance and prevention fall within the constitutional mandate of the police and intelligence services, not prosecutors.

Why is this important: Both SPAK and the Special Court (GJKKO) reacted to the gathering of Veliaj’s supporters outside their buildings, claiming that such actions intimidate judges and prosecutors. They also accused the police of failing to intervene, while law enforcement responded that it was a spontaneous gathering, not an officially planned protest.

Why is this important: SPAK has created a special task force, split into two investigative teams, tasked with preventing and investigating electoral crimes before and after the May 11 elections. These teams will be deployed in all 12 electoral districts of Albania. This on-the-ground investigation approach is unprecedented, as prosecutors will be actively present during the campaign period where political parties hold their activities. While SPAK claims the initiative aims to combat vote-buying, critics argue it positions the anti-corruption body as an actor in the electoral campaign, rather than an impartial observer.