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Archived edition · August 05, 2026 Today's news →

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Government Moves to Cancel Airport Deal, Wildfire Rages

The Albanian government has initiated the process to cancel the concession contract for the Vlora Airport, a move that has prompted businessman and former Kosovan politician Behgjet Pacolli to threaten arbitration over the decision. This development marks a significant shift in a major infrastructure project in the country.

Meanwhile, a substantial wildfire in Rriban has escalated out of control, necessitating an urgent call for aerial intervention to combat the blaze. In other local news, residents of Divjakë are continuing their protests for the fifth consecutive day against a proposed municipal merger with Lushnjë.

Ongoing anti-government protests, now in their 67th day, continue to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Separately, the expansion of the Tirana-Durres highway has entered its third phase, with planned nighttime closures announced for August 6-7.

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Protests Continue Against Government and Municipal Mergers

Anti-government protests have reached their 67th consecutive day, with demonstrators continuing to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Separately, Divjakë residents are protesting for the fifth day against a proposed municipal merger with Lushnjë. Reports also highlight concerns over media freedom and the handling of peaceful activists during recent protests.

Highway Expansion Underway, Fatal Accident Reported

The expansion of the Tirana-Durres highway is entering its third phase, with nighttime closures planned for August 6-7. Separately, a fatal car accident on the Korçë-Maliq road resulted in one death and three injuries.

Environmental Warnings and Illegal Construction Probe

The Vlora Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into illegal construction activities in the Zvërnec area. This comes amidst calls from 534 scientists for the Albanian government to cease ongoing tourist development projects in the Vjosa River delta due to environmental concerns, and criticism from the Bern Convention regarding a lack of information on the Vjosa-Narta protected area.

Albanian Lek's Strengthening Presents Economic Advantage

An analysis suggests that the recent strengthening of the Albanian Lek currency offers an economic advantage that the country should leverage for national benefit.

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