Two Albanian martyrs beatified in historic ceremony

Published on November 16, 2024
On Saturday, November 16, the Catholic Church and the Albanian nation celebrated a significant milestone with the beatification of two martyrs, Father Luigji Paliq and...

Why is this important: The beatification of these two figures is not only a spiritual event but also a national honor, emphasizing the sacrifices made for faith and country. It further strengthens the spiritual heritage of Albanians and highlights the global Catholic Church’s recognition of the country’s martyrs. 


In Focus


1. SPAK breaks major drug trafficking ring

November 16, 2024
The Special Structure Against Organized Crime and Corruption (SPAK) announced on Saturday the dismantling of an international drug trafficking network based in Qerekë village, near Fushë-Krujë, only a few kilometers...

Why is this important: The operation, conducted in cooperation with Spanish authorities, marks a significant blow to international crime networks. In recent months, SPAK has been engaged in a number of similar operations alongside international partners. This is not the first time that such a laboratory is found in Albania. The complexity of the methods used, as well as the presence of foreign specialists, reveal the sophistication, reach and deep pockets of Albanian organized crime groups that have become major players in cocaine trafficking. 


All latest stories


Two Albanian martyrs beatified in historic ceremony

Published on November 16, 2024
On Saturday, November 16, the Catholic Church and the Albanian nation celebrated a significant milestone with the beatification of two martyrs, Father Luigji Paliq and...

Why is this important: The beatification of these two figures is not only a spiritual event but also a national honor, emphasizing the sacrifices made for faith and country. It further strengthens the spiritual heritage of Albanians and highlights the global Catholic Church’s recognition of the country’s martyrs. 


Kosovo-Romania match abandoned: UEFA’s decision anticipated amid calls for action

Published on November 16, 2024
The UEFA Nations League match between Kosovo and Romania in Bucharest was abandoned when Kosovo’s players left the field in protest against persistent racist and...

Why is this important: UEFA’s regulations are firm: leaving the field can result in sanctions. Kosovo faces the risk of a default loss, a consequence that could unfairly impact their standings. Yet, the incident also puts pressure on UEFA to address escalating issues of racism and nationalist provocations in football, underlining the need for stronger measures to ensure the safety and dignity of players. The Football Federation of Kosovo (FFK) has demanded decisive action, emphasizing that the values of respect and equality are at stake.


SPAK breaks major drug trafficking ring

Published on November 16, 2024
The Special Structure Against Organized Crime and Corruption (SPAK) announced on Saturday the dismantling of an international drug trafficking network based in Qerekë village, near...

Why is this important: The operation, conducted in cooperation with Spanish authorities, marks a significant blow to international crime networks. In recent months, SPAK has been engaged in a number of similar operations alongside international partners. This is not the first time that such a laboratory is found in Albania. The complexity of the methods used, as well as the presence of foreign specialists, reveal the sophistication, reach and deep pockets of Albanian organized crime groups that have become major players in cocaine trafficking. 


Bank of Albania urges pension reform amid demographic shifts

Published on November 15, 2024
As the Albanian government debates a new pension scheme reform, the Bank of Albania has issued a warning regarding the current system. In its opinion...

Why is this important: The Deputy Governor emphasized that demographic and economic shifts make the pension system unstable and unsustainable. “Population aging is a long-term social concern, and we have flagged the instability of the pension scheme,” Minxhozi stated. She stressed the importance of redesigning the system to align with EU standards, ensuring sustainability and economic growth. The Bank stands ready to contribute ideas but does not propose direct solutions. Failure to act, Minxhozi warned, could hinder economic development in the medium term.


Albanian Democrats unveil economic program for upcoming 2025 elections

Published on November 15, 2024
Democratic Party Chairman Sali Berisha has unveiled his party’s economic program for the upcoming elections, emphasizing lower taxes and increased support for families in need,...

High stakes for Albania in Euro 2024 qualifier against Czech Republic

Published on November 15, 2024
Albania faces a key Euro 2024 qualifier against the Czech Republic on November 16 at the Air Albania Stadium.  Why is this important: The match,...

Why is this important: The match, kicking off at 20:45, isn’t just another game—it’s a critical test that could define Albania’s path to securing a spot in next year’s European Championship. With only two matchdays left and Albania sitting in third place with six points, a victory could propel them toward the top of Group B1. Anything less, and their chances of topping the group and securing automatic qualification could slip away.


2025 Albanian election poll: Socialists lead, skepticism over Berisha’s ‘non grata’ reversal

Published on November 15, 2024
A new poll from Report TV has revealed early voter sentiment as Albania approaches the 2025 elections. The survey, with 1,854 likely voters from both...

Why is this important: If past years are any indication, as elections approach, there will be a proliferation of opinion polls across major television networks and media outlets. However, at this early stage, the Report TV poll conducted by a respected pollster offers a valuable glimpse into the current levels of support for political parties and the impact of their recent actions.


Mexico’s Cultural Week in Albania to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties

Published on November 14, 2024
For the first time in Albania, the Mexican Cultural Week will be held, packed with a variety of artistic and cultural events. This week-long celebration...

Shell service stations coming to Albania

Published on November 14, 2024
Kastrati Group Sh.a, one of Albania’s leading companies, has partnered with Coral S.A. and Coral Albania Sh.a to introduce Shell-branded service stations in Albania for...

Why is this important: The arrival of Shell’s premium fuel products and services in Albania marks a significant milestone, bringing globally recognized energy standards to local consumers. The partnership is set to enhance the Albanian energy sector, offering quality and sustainability in fuel services.


Albania hosts Western Balkans Open Government Meeting for the First Time

Published on November 14, 2024
Albania hosted the Western Balkans Open Government Partnership (OGP) meeting in Tirana, marking the first time this significant regional event has taken place in the...

Why is this important: The meeting puts Albania at the center of regional efforts to strengthen democratic governance. By hosting the event, Albania is reinforcing its commitment to open government principles and showcasing alignment with EU values.


All latest stories


Kosovo-Romania match abandoned: UEFA’s decision anticipated amid calls for action

Published on November 16, 2024
The UEFA Nations League match between Kosovo and Romania in Bucharest was abandoned when Kosovo’s players left the field in protest against persistent racist and...

Why is this important: UEFA’s regulations are firm: leaving the field can result in sanctions. Kosovo faces the risk of a default loss, a consequence that could unfairly impact their standings. Yet, the incident also puts pressure on UEFA to address escalating issues of racism and nationalist provocations in football, underlining the need for stronger measures to ensure the safety and dignity of players. The Football Federation of Kosovo (FFK) has demanded decisive action, emphasizing that the values of respect and equality are at stake.


SPAK breaks major drug trafficking ring

Published on November 16, 2024
The Special Structure Against Organized Crime and Corruption (SPAK) announced on Saturday the dismantling of an international drug trafficking network based in Qerekë village, near...

Why is this important: The operation, conducted in cooperation with Spanish authorities, marks a significant blow to international crime networks. In recent months, SPAK has been engaged in a number of similar operations alongside international partners. This is not the first time that such a laboratory is found in Albania. The complexity of the methods used, as well as the presence of foreign specialists, reveal the sophistication, reach and deep pockets of Albanian organized crime groups that have become major players in cocaine trafficking. 


Bank of Albania urges pension reform amid demographic shifts

Published on November 15, 2024
As the Albanian government debates a new pension scheme reform, the Bank of Albania has issued a warning regarding the current system. In its opinion...

Why is this important: The Deputy Governor emphasized that demographic and economic shifts make the pension system unstable and unsustainable. “Population aging is a long-term social concern, and we have flagged the instability of the pension scheme,” Minxhozi stated. She stressed the importance of redesigning the system to align with EU standards, ensuring sustainability and economic growth. The Bank stands ready to contribute ideas but does not propose direct solutions. Failure to act, Minxhozi warned, could hinder economic development in the medium term.


Albanian Democrats unveil economic program for upcoming 2025 elections

Published on November 15, 2024
Democratic Party Chairman Sali Berisha has unveiled his party’s economic program for the upcoming elections, emphasizing lower taxes and increased support for families in need,...

High stakes for Albania in Euro 2024 qualifier against Czech Republic

Published on November 15, 2024
Albania faces a key Euro 2024 qualifier against the Czech Republic on November 16 at the Air Albania Stadium.  Why is this important: The match,...

Why is this important: The match, kicking off at 20:45, isn’t just another game—it’s a critical test that could define Albania’s path to securing a spot in next year’s European Championship. With only two matchdays left and Albania sitting in third place with six points, a victory could propel them toward the top of Group B1. Anything less, and their chances of topping the group and securing automatic qualification could slip away.


2025 Albanian election poll: Socialists lead, skepticism over Berisha’s ‘non grata’ reversal

Published on November 15, 2024
A new poll from Report TV has revealed early voter sentiment as Albania approaches the 2025 elections. The survey, with 1,854 likely voters from both...

Why is this important: If past years are any indication, as elections approach, there will be a proliferation of opinion polls across major television networks and media outlets. However, at this early stage, the Report TV poll conducted by a respected pollster offers a valuable glimpse into the current levels of support for political parties and the impact of their recent actions.


Mexico’s Cultural Week in Albania to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties

Published on November 14, 2024
For the first time in Albania, the Mexican Cultural Week will be held, packed with a variety of artistic and cultural events. This week-long celebration...

Shell service stations coming to Albania

Published on November 14, 2024
Kastrati Group Sh.a, one of Albania’s leading companies, has partnered with Coral S.A. and Coral Albania Sh.a to introduce Shell-branded service stations in Albania for...

Why is this important: The arrival of Shell’s premium fuel products and services in Albania marks a significant milestone, bringing globally recognized energy standards to local consumers. The partnership is set to enhance the Albanian energy sector, offering quality and sustainability in fuel services.


Albania hosts Western Balkans Open Government Meeting for the First Time

Published on November 14, 2024
Albania hosted the Western Balkans Open Government Partnership (OGP) meeting in Tirana, marking the first time this significant regional event has taken place in the...

Why is this important: The meeting puts Albania at the center of regional efforts to strengthen democratic governance. By hosting the event, Albania is reinforcing its commitment to open government principles and showcasing alignment with EU values.


Bank of Albania Governor, IMF mission discuss economic and financial developments

Published on November 14, 2024
The Governor of the Bank of Albania, Gent Sejko, met with the IMF Mission, led by Anke Weber, to discuss Albania’s economic progress and financial...

Why is this important: The discussions are critical in understanding how Albania is navigating economic challenges, especially concerning inflation, monetary policy, and banking sector health. The IMF’s positive feedback underscores confidence in Albania’s financial governance.