From Europe to America, elections in Albania are echoed in the foreign press

The elections have also attracted the attention of the foreign media. « Albania votes while Prime Minister Rama demands the fourth mandate, promising EU integration », this is Reuters’ title, while the article mentions the fact that the chief socialist is the favorite against rival Sali Berisha. The agency also quotes surveys that issue the winning chief socialist with up to 50% of the vote.

The news agency also mentions good economic performance, but also focuses on allegations of corruption. « According to some measurements, Rama has performed well. Annual economic growth over 4% for the years 2022-2024, driven by the EU trade and a tourism boom, exceeded other Balkan countries, says the World Bank, » reads Reuters.

Al Jazeera writes « Rama, leader of the ruling Socialist Party since 2013, has positioned himself as the architect of Albania’s future in the EU. He has pledged that the country will join the Bloc by 2030, repeating the promise in its last gathering: » We will receive our fourth mandate and will not lose Albania. « 

Al Jazeera also mentions that Sali Berisha was named Non Grata by the US because of corruption charges. He also stops at Berisha’s attempt to withdraw the electorate with Chris Lacivita.

« The Democratic Party brought American political strategist Chris Lacivita, known for his role in US President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign in an effort to sharpen their message. »

Washington Post has also dedicated an election article in Albania. In addition to the electoral promises of both parties, the US media also focuses on corruption and mentions that the top Democrat is under investigation for corruption.

« Berisha himself has been accused of corruption and is waiting for the trial. In 2021, the US government banned him and his close relatives to enter the country on suspicion of corruption. The United Kingdom followed the example in 2022., » the article said.

The American newspaper also dwells on the terms used during the campaign. « Rama described Berisha as a » marsh buff  » – a metaphor for corruption – while Berisha called Rama a » chief « , the article reads.

Euronews begins the article with Rama’s lead in the surveys. « The polls show that Rama, who has promised EU membership in the next five years, has a great lead to his old rival Sali Berisha, who has been weakened by an investigation into corruption. »