Defense & Shipbuilding Deal: Albania signed a cooperation memorandum with Italy’s Fincantieri to revive naval production at the Pashaliman base, aiming to start vessel building in 2027 and reach about 10 ships by 2030, with training for workers via the “Pavarësia” Industrial School and a projected ~500 jobs in Vlora. Textiles & Manufacturing: Italian yarn producer MIC launched an “Exté Silk” innovation at Pitti Filati 99, reporting growth in clients and revenue and highlighting its Albania-linked supply footprint and partnerships. Banking & Digital Services: Jet Bank began operations in Albania as the country’s first fully digital bank, built on Backbase’s AI-native Banking OS, with staged account activations after a large waiting list. Construction Safety: Albania’s first EU-standard-style inspections found about 20% of checked construction sites fail basic safety rules, triggering fines and possible work suspensions. Protests & Tourism/Real Estate: Tirana’s “Flamingo Revolution” protests continued over a Kushner-linked luxury resort near protected areas, with demonstrators demanding project cancellation and broader political reforms. Economy Snapshot: Albania’s Q1 2026 growth hit 3.71%, led by public services, real estate and construction, while industry and farming declined. Heat & Risk: A record-breaking European heatwave is driving wildfires and emergency responses, including in Albania.