Tourism Integrity: Albanian police opened an investigation into suspected fake online reviews targeting tourism businesses, with more than 10,000 suspicious accounts flagged across Tirana, Durrës, Vlorë, Sarandë and other cities. Defense Industry & Finance: NATO summit in Ankara backed a Canada-led Defence, Security and Resilience Bank that could raise up to $134bn for defense and security projects, with Albania among the signatories aiming to start operations in 2027. Albania at NATO: Turkish President Erdoğan met Albanian PM Edi Rama in Ankara, saying Türkiye wants to deepen cooperation—especially in the defense industry—and inviting Rama to COP31 in Antalya. Local Security Crackdown: Albania’s Police Oversight Agency arrested a police officer and two others in Fushë-Krujë over alleged illegal gambling and drug activity, seizing ammunition and equipment linked to the probe. Workforce Trends: Albania issued about 14,000 first-time work permits to foreign nationals in 2025, with growing demand in services, manufacturing, agriculture and engineering roles. Protest & Development: Rama said the Zvërnec resort protests have shifted into a broader political clash tied to Trump, while the government insists no final project or construction permit has been issued. Events Economy: The government defended €4mn state support for Kanye West’s Tirana concert, arguing it will boost tourism and the events industry.