Rama shared photos of SIAR Guesthouse, describing it as an example of an enterprise contributing to the country’s tourism development.

The guesthouse offers nine private wooden cabins, leisure facilities and local products, and aims to accommodate visitors year-round.

Rama said SIAR Guesthouse, supported by the Agency for Agricultural and Rural Development (AZHBR) through the EU-funded IPARD programme, was “another fine example” of the development of agrotourism and Albania as a tourist destination.

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Rama announced the main goals for the new political season:

First of all, Rama introduced “Besa, (Code of Honor)” a new way for the government to talk and listen to citizens. He emphasized that officials must work directly in the field with people. The government is building a better system to track and answer citizen requests. Rama noted that these ideas came from reflections during a busy summer break.

Further on, Rama introduced ‘Albania’s Review’, a new digital platform that brings all state institutions together in one place. Citizens can track their requests, problems, or concerns just like tracking a postal package online. Senders can see the exact status of their issue at any moment. The platform gives the government and its institutions clear responsibility for every single request they receive. Any delays or missed deadlines will be completely visible and tracked closely.

This tool is part of the new political season preparations to improve public services and strengthen trust between citizens and the state.

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According to media reports, the meeting began around 11:30 AM and initially focused on gathering feedback for the “Besa” document, Albania’s new fourth-term governing strategy which PM Rama introduced in July 2026. Named after the traditional Albanian code of honor and trust, the document addresses recent public demonstrations. Rama labeled these events the “flamingo protest” and framed them as a key test for the nation’s democracy.

Discussions centered on improving teamwork between political and administrative teams at both central and regional levels. Media reports noted that Rama asked attendees for ideas on how to strengthen working relationships among ministers, political leaders, MPs, and regional directors.

The Socialist Party leadership is meeting in Pogradec to discuss political organization and regional coordination. Meanwhile, the prime minister will meet with government ministers on Monday to review their performance reports.

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Anastas Kostandini, fondly known in his hometown as Taso, is showcasing 45 pastel works that capture the true essence of Pogradec. Art enthusiasts are welcome to visit this deeply evocative exhibition before it closes at the end of July.

A leading figure in contemporary Albanian art, he draws deeply on his roots in Pogradec. Through his work, the city transforms into an extraordinary canvas where the tangible and the imagined coexist in perfect poetic balance.

The cycle “Pogradec sharing wine and schnapps” forms the emotional zenith of this narrative. It transcends mere documentation of local heritage, evolving into a poetic reflection on the communal bonds and rituals that define the city’s soul. These compositions turn forgotten wine cellars into stages where the line between reality and myth is completely erased

Art historian and curator Ylli Drishti appreciated that these 45 pastels are a dual homage: a celebration of Pogradec’s unique landscape and a demonstration of how art translates localized history into a shared, universal experience.

“Anastas Kostandini emerges not merely as a chronicler of his native city, but as a visionary who renders local experience into a universal language. This rare ability secures his distinct and lasting legacy in contemporary Albanian art”, said Drishti. /j.p/p.s./

Prime Minister Edi Rama shared today on social networks views of the Pogradec beaches where one can enjoy the organized rental areas and accessible, free-to-use public spaces.

Pogradec is welcoming visitors with expanded public spaces, crystal-clear waters, and upgraded infrastructure. To manage surging weekend crowds driven by summer heat, local authorities have amplified cleaning, maintenance, and security across public beaches to ensure an optimal experience for all vacationers.

As one of Albania’s top lakeside destinations, Pogradec pairs the timeless beauty of Lake Ohrid with unmatched hospitality, traditional fresh fish, and an ever-growing list of things to do.

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The inauguration ceremony at the Pogradec Art Gallery was attended by Mayor Ilir Xhakolli, who highlighted the event’s role in enriching the city’s cultural scene and elevating Pogradec’s international artistic profile. The event culminated in the presentation of 10 festival awards, recognizing the most outstanding artists for their originality and artistic excellence.

The “Lin in Aqua 2” exhibition is open until July 12, 2026, celebrating the art of watercolor with stunning works from around the globe. Part of the International Watercolor Festival, it is organized by the Center for Active Society (QSHA) and the Municipality of Pogradec, with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports. The exhibition is curated by artists Foti Kllogjeri and Armand Xhika. /j.p/p.s./p.s./

The five-day festival, running from June 23 to June 27, features film screenings, discussions with filmmakers and a range of food-related activities aimed at promoting the cultural diversity of the Balkans.

Organisers said the event seeks to celebrate regional artistic traditions and foster cultural exchange in the lakeside city on the shores of Lake Ohrid.

The festival opened with a screening of Maricel, a film that follows a Filipina caregiver who travels to a remote village in Cyprus to care for an elderly couple. The story explores themes of migration, loneliness, emotional dependency and human connection.

The programme also includes short films by students from the Universities of Pristina and Tirana, which are scheduled to be screened in Pogradec’s central square.

Alongside contemporary productions, the festival will showcase feature films, documentaries, animated works and a selection of classic films from the pre-1990 period, including The Commissar of Light (Komisari i Dritës) by Albanian directors Dhimitër Anagnosti and Viktor Gjika.

Held annually in Pogradec, the festival has become one of Albania’s established regional cultural events, attracting filmmakers, artists and audiences from across the Balkans.

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Prime Minister Edi Rama shared on social networks today views of Korça and Pogradec, two of the most attractive destinations in the southeast of the country, which combine natural beauties, cultural heritage and rich traditions of hospitality.

“Authentic Albania: Nature’s beauty, hometown hospitality, southeast flavors”, wrote Rama.

Where untouched landscapes meet ancient heritage, Albania’s southeast preserves the true identity of the nation. From majestic mountains and tranquil lakes to culturally rich villages, it offers a complete escape. The region’s charm is elevated by the genuine warmth of its people and a rich culinary tradition passed down through generations.

Local specialties made with organic ingredients are drawing a growing number of tourists seeking authentic cultural experiences. /m.m/ /a.g/p.s./

To ensure safe and seamless care for all vacationers, our 36 summer health centers are fully equipped with essential medical staff, medications, and computer systems. Spanning the coast, mountains, and major heritage sites, these stations form a vital part of our national readiness for the tourism season.

The minister also introduced a new regulatory framework governing the registration, expenses, and documents of foreign visitors for state protection. This establishes the first clear, transparent rules for offering services to foreign tourists, enforced by publicly published, standardized tariffs.

The framework covers free service eligibility, non-resident tariffs, internal client file procedures, prepayment protocols, and guidelines for informing patients of costs and issuing financial documents.

Since June 1, health centers have cared for 4,940 patients. A surge team of 301 medical professionals is stationed on-site to provide uninterrupted, round-the-clock care.

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The historic neighborhood of Pogradec is undergoing a major revitalization, restoring nearly 100 traditional houses with their signature wooden shutters, balconies, and cobblestone charm to preserve the town’s unique character.

Prime Minister Edi Rama shared views of the area writing that, “The renovation of the historic center will establish a new tourist hub, boosting both local tourism and the economy”.

This neighborhood serves as a cornerstone of cultural heritage, reflecting the historical development and traditional architecture of the city.

Pogradec is a top-choice, year-round destination for both domestic and international travelers. /m.q/j.p/p.s./