EU Rule of Law Watch: The European Commission’s 2026 Rule of Law Report says Albania is making “real progress” on justice reforms, including finishing vetting of judges and prosecutors and clearing a major court backlog, but it also flags uneven results and ongoing threats to journalists. Media Freedom Under Pressure: The same report warns that smear campaigns, threats and SLAPP-style lawsuits targeting journalists continue, tying media safety to broader institutional independence. SME Push: Albania’s government launched a €1bn package to help small businesses grow, offering low-interest bank loans (up to €2m, capped at 3%) plus expert support, with the central bank urging banks to move fast. Euro Adoption Steps: Albania published a draft Bank of Albania law for public consultation laying out the legal framework for euro circulation and central bank operations after adoption. Infrastructure Finance: Parliament advanced an EBRD-backed loan draft for electrifying the Tirana–Durrës railway and the Rinas station connection, aiming for modern service by end-2027. Banking Awards: BKT and Raiffeisen Bank Albania both picked up major Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2026, highlighting performance, digital banking and ESG. Property & Compliance: A debate continues around property filings tied to Agron Shehaj, with calls for proper contract-based asset declarations. Tourism Protest Fallout: Dua Lipa backed Albania’s protests against the Kushner-linked luxury resort plans, as prosecutors investigate land-deal issues.