EU Funding Watch: Albania expects 213.6 million euros from the EU Growth Plan after submitting its next reforms report in mid-July, with an assessment due in September/October. Protests in Tirana: Anti-government demonstrations tied to the Kushner-linked coastal resort project escalated again outside Parliament, with police using tear gas, pepper spray and water cannon; dozens were detained and officers injured. Justice & Governance: Prime Minister Edi Rama defended Albania’s justice system in a BBC interview, stressing independence and “straight ahead” reform. Defense Upgrade: Rama announced plans for a National Special Forces Academy with Israeli training support, following the opening of the National Flight School. SPAK Reform: Parliament backs extending SPAK prosecutors’ mandates, aligning with a proposal to allow reappointment after their nine-year term. Economy & Jobs: Unemployment fell to 8.4% in Q1 2026 as employers listed 5,600+ vacancies, especially in tourism and services. Cross-border Work: Albania and Kosovo signed a labour mobility deal to expand job access and vocational training. Road Safety: Seven people were injured in a multi-vehicle crash near the Kosovo-Albania border. Public Safety/Health: A 29-year-old woman died in a suspected drowning at Porto Novo Beach.