A total of 530 public administration employees, including those working in the Ministry of Finance, Infrastructure and Energy, Tourism and Environment, and the Prime Minister’s office, can apply to benefit from the government program.

Teuta Nunaj, an economics expert, states: “If we analyze this from a macro perspective, we must say that this money does stimulate the country’s economy because, after all, it’s being spent here. From a micro perspective, that is, on a family level, this is a social support policy, as the loan comes with very eased costs.”

Taking a soft loan is particularly beneficial today, despite a slight easing of interest rates. But could this policy extend beyond public sector employees?

“It would be very difficult to extend it to other categories. This is because, in a way, the government would take on the role of the banks, which would harm them,” explains Nunaj.

To benefit from the social housing policy, public sector employees must have a long-term contract. Additionally, they should not own a house in their name or that of family members, and their income should be sufficient to repay the loan but less than 135,000 lek per month.

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Pay attention to these tips:

1. Posture

Body language can reveal many details about our personality and emotional state. Standing tall with your back straight and placing your hand on the side you prefer shows confidence and determination.

2. Body

Pay attention to hand movements. Biting nails, playing with hair, or lowering your head reveals a lot about how we interact with our conversation partners.

3. Smile

When meeting someone for the first time, we don’t necessarily need to show our teeth, even a small smile can be enough.

4. Eyes

Focusing on the person in front of us while speaking shows appreciation.

5. Clothing

To make a good impression, it is important to wear clean clothes.

6. Handshake

A handshake should not be too firm, not too soft, and brief. The general rule is to respond with the same strength as the other person.

7. Punctuality

Punctuality is crucial to making a good impression.

The post The case for the first impression is given only once. appeared first on Fast News Economy.

AKEP is based on the order of the National Authority for Cybersecurity. TikTok will be blocked in Albania for 12 months, after which measures will be considered to limit inappropriate content. The government’s decision has been criticized, with the opposition calling on young people to protest against the blocking of this application.

AKEP’s announcement:

“The National Authority for Cybersecurity (AKSK), with letter no. 1196 prot., dated 10.03.2025 (administered in AKEP with no. 359/2 prot., dated 10.03.2025), has requested the necessary measures for blocking access to the TikTok application and its digital infrastructure in Albanian territory, taking the following actions:

• Blocking TikTok IPs in the territory of Albania.
• Blocking TikTok DNS in the territory of Albania.
• Blocking TikTok SNI (Server Name Indications) in the territory of Albania.
• Blocking ByteDance company IPs in the territory of Albania.”

The AKSK letter cites the legal basis (Council of Ministers Decision no. 151 dated 6.3.2025) and the list of all IPs and domains for which access blocking is requested. Based on letter c) of point 2 of Article 30 of Law no. 54/2024 “On electronic communications in the Republic of Albania” and letter e), point 1, of Article 9, as well as point 9 of Annex E, of AKEP Regulation no. 47 dated 26.10.2017 “On the implementation of the General Authorization regime,” any operator/entrepreneur offering electronic communication services/networks under the general authorization regime must comply with restrictions on transmissions containing illegal or harmful content as determined by AKSK. Therefore, we are forwarding the AKSK letter.

Also, each entrepreneur (ISP) must submit a written confirmation to AKEP and for AKSK’s information, regarding the closure of access to the IPs and domains cited in the AKSK letter, by March 13, 2025.”

The post AKEP (Authority for Electronic and Postal Communications) has given an ultimatum to internet companies: Block access to TikTok by March 13! appeared first on Fast News Economy.

The gap between education and career opportunities

Women have reached educational equality with men since the 1980s, even surpassing them in many fields of study. In 2021, women accounted for 59% of bachelor’s degrees, 63% of master’s degrees, and 57% of doctoral degrees in the U.S. However, when they enter the workforce, the situation changes. Women represent only 48% of employees in entry-level corporate positions, and when promotions occur, only 81 women are promoted for every 100 men.

This gap is even wider for women of color, who make up only 7% of executives at the C-level. This raises important questions. How is it possible that after so many years of educational achievements, women are still so far from equality in the workplace?

Experience capital, the secret to success

To advance in a career, it’s not enough just to have an education and skills acquired in school; it’s necessary to build “experience capital.” This capital can be gained through professional development opportunities, job changes, and training offered by employers, as well as by learning from colleagues and leaders.

Studies show that women and men develop experience capital in similar ways, but there are significant differences. Women often make moves to positions that do not offer opportunities for salary growth and skill development, while men frequently move into more advanced positions that help them increase their salary and opportunities.

Advice for women: How to improve experience capital

• Choose the right company
  Finding a company that offers significant growth and development opportunities is important. Look for companies with a strong learning culture, successful strategies, and mobility opportunities. Companies that support diversity are also more successful at growing experience capital for all their employees.
• Bold and significant moves
  Professional moves are important, and some moves, like those that require new skills, can have a big impact on growing experience capital. This might involve switching to a new industry or changing positions that require new skills, and it can also bring salary growth.
• Leadership roles and accountability for profit and loss
  Positions that have leadership responsibility and profit and loss accountability are helpful for developing experience capital. Women who take on these roles can increase their influence and opportunities for advancement.
• Use of technology and AI
  With the development of artificial intelligence (AI), learning how to use this technology can significantly boost career opportunities for women. You don’t need a technical background, but you can become a powerful user of AI to improve your productivity and development.

While women are highly capable and educated, career advancement requires more than just education. Experience capital must be built and earned, thoughtful and bold moves must be made, and opportunities that ensure continuous development must be chosen. This process requires dedication, continuous learning, and confidence, especially in oneself.

The post How can women lead in the workplace? appeared first on Fast News Economy.

“In the coming hours, the weather will improve, but by midnight, heavy rain will return. Temperatures will range from 6-22 degrees across the country. There will be clear skies and light rain, but in the evening, heavy rain will hit the north and central regions, continuing into the night and tomorrow morning throughout Albania. Friday will bring improved weather conditions with only light rain and temperatures of 24-25°C.”

However, after the Day of Summer, A2 CNN’s meteorologist warns of winter returning with a significant drop in temperatures and snowfall.

“Sunday will bring rain and heavy showers across the territory, which will be localized in the northern parts by Monday. Snowfall will return on Monday. Friday and Saturday will have mild weather with maximum temperatures of 24-25°C. On Sunday, there will be a sharp drop of 4°C until Monday. From the Day of Summer, we will move into winter conditions.” /A2 CNN

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The agreement will secure a long-term loan on favorable terms, valued at €45.75 million, which aims to refinance existing overdraft loans, with state guarantees, taken from second-tier banks during the energy crisis in the country.

For the Albanian government, the agreement was signed by the Minister of Finance, Mr. Petrit Malaj, and the Administrator of OSHEE, Mr. Enea Karakaçi, while for the EBRD, it was signed by its Vice President, Mr. Matteo Patrone, during his visit to the country.

Minister Malaj appreciated the signing of the Agreement and the continued support that the EBRD has provided to the country over the years.

“This transaction offers significant advantages. By refinancing the current short-term loans into long-term loans from the EBRD, it enables OSHEE to return to manageable installments over a prolonged period, creating a more stable amortization profile and reducing the risk of refinancing debt in the future. Furthermore, it offers more favorable financial terms, reducing the total cost of the loan,” said Mr. Malaj.

For his part, Mr. Patrone expressed his satisfaction on behalf of the EBRD for supporting OSHEE’s modernization and sustainability goals. “By unlocking capital for green investments, we are not only strengthening the company’s infrastructure but also paving the way for a more sustainable energy future for the company and the citizens of Albania,” said Mr. Patrone.

The Administrator of OSHEE, Mr. Karakaçi, emphasized the importance of the project for OSHEE and the energy sector in Albania as a whole. “It will enable us to continue improving and modernizing the service we provide to our customers and enhance the reliability of that service, with the ultimate goal of ensuring sustainable energy at reasonable prices,” said Mr. Karakaçi.

Through the signed Agreement with the EBRD, OSHEE will strengthen its financial stability and optimize its debt structure, ensuring more cost-effective and sustainable financing sources to enable funding for important green capital expenditures in the development, management, and efficiency of the electricity distribution network in Albania.

The initiative is part of the commitment of the Albanian Government and the EBRD to support the energy sector and ensure more efficient management of financial resources, enhancing the operational sustainability of OSHEE GROUP and improving services for citizens.

The post The Guarantee Agreement with the EBRD is signed, financial support for OSHEE. appeared first on Fast News Economy.

“Small and medium-sized enterprises have limited access to financing. The creation of the Albanian Development Bank represents a key step in creating a sustainable mechanism for financing the strategic sectors of the economy. The main goal of the bank is to increase access to finance for under-financed sectors by supporting the development of infrastructure, small and medium enterprises, exports, and strategic projects with economic impact,” said Delina Ibrahimaj, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and Business Climate.

The focus of this financial institution will be on providing credit for under-financed sectors, such as agriculture, small and medium businesses, start-ups, manufacturing enterprises, or projects important for economic development. Credit will also be given to citizens who are currently under-financed. Although in principle the opposition sees the opening of this bank as a “good move,” they voted against it, with arguments listed by the Democratic MP Jorida Tabaku.

“It is an additional tool in the hands of the government, which will be used like the strategic investments law, like the investment corporation, etc. In fact, PPPs with no feasibility will be financed,” said Tabaku.

The bank’s initial capital will be 10 billion lek, and the credit offered to both citizens and businesses will have soft conditions and interest rates. Another responsibility of the bank will be the collection of savings only from citizens, not businesses, with interests that will not compete with commercial banks. This draft law passed on Wednesday in all parliamentary committees and is expected to receive final approval in the plenary session on Monday, March 17.

The post The Albanian Development Bank “passes” into parliamentary committees, here’s who will be financed… appeared first on Fast News Economy.

“Money circulating outside the banking system is part of the informal economy, and along with it, there is also money from criminal activities taking place both inside and outside our country,” said Zef Preçi, an expert on the economy.

In relation to the total amount of money circulating in the Albanian economy, which is estimated at 1.79 trillion lek, informal money makes up nearly 23.6 percent of the total. To understand the high level of money outside banks, it is enough to mention that in European Union countries, this indicator does not exceed 9 percent.

“Partly due to the incompetence of the administration and partly by allowing the entry of money from criminal activities, we have today such a high level of money outside the banking system. Although the Fiscal Amnesty was not allowed to be passed as law, in practice, it has happened,” said the expert.

Economy experts assess that the large circulation of money outside of banks is the main cause of the devaluation of the euro and other currencies.

“I agree with international institutions that there may be some effect, but we can never claim that informal money can be fought by commercial banks.”

This “tradition” of cash payments paves the way for informality, making it harder to combat money laundering, negatively impacting the economy as the circulation of money remains uncontrolled. For these reasons, the Ministry of Finance and the General Directorate of Taxes have begun working to limit cash payments as a solution to reduce the circulation of money outside the banks in the country. /A2 CNN

The post Cash money makes a splash in the market, surpassing 422 billion lek in January. appeared first on Fast News Economy.

“This is the long-awaited Murrizi Tunnel, which has finally been handed over. The mountain has been delivered, and the tunnel will be handed over tomorrow for all the people of Dibra who have been waiting for years. I think we’ve broken the evil eye because all the negative energy gathered in that tunnel, and the geology of that tunnel was a nightmare. Tomorrow, the Murrizi Tunnel will open, coinciding with Summer Day. From Elbasan to Dibra and throughout Albania. If you haven’t gone, you will discover a wonderful part of Albania. We have created opportunities to explore unreachable, beautiful parts in a normal way.”

The Prime Minister promised that as long as he is in government, the Arber Road will be free of charge.

“This tunnel was built with a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), the entire Arber Road. It cost the state and taxpayers much less than roads built, especially in the past, with tenders that became stories of abuse by increasing funds for unforeseen works. The contract was made so that for anything unforeseen, the private contractor would cover it. Additional costs based on the contract were borne by the contractor. The Arber Road and Tunnel, as long as I am here, will have no toll. As long as I am here. Later, you’ll see and do what you want,” said Rama.

The post Tomorrow, the Murrizi Tunnel opens, Rama: As long as I am Prime Minister, the Arber Road will be free of charge. appeared first on Fast News Economy.

Dr. Glevin Dervishi, a researcher in international relations and security issues with 14 years of experience in the country’s main institutions and currently a member of AFA – Ministry of Defense, brings a perspective on security and international relations.

In the interview with Vaspas, he discusses his book “Security and International Relations,” the impact of the war in Ukraine on the Western Balkans, the challenges of Kosovo, and security policy in Europe. He shares his views on the importance of strengthening defense capacities, preparedness for potential risks, and the need for strategic engagement for regional peace and stability.

You have published a book with a specific interest, “Security in International Relations.” What do you mainly address in this book, and what are the messages for policymakers that you bring through this book?

The book “Security and International Relations,” co-authored with Colonel (R) Dr. Ahmet LEKA and Dr. Glevin DERVISHI, is an academic text that intertwines two very important elements: security and international relations.

The text is a contribution that serves both academically and theoretically-practically to researchers of defense, security, and international relations at all levels. It also brings a combination of the expertise and specific experience of both authors in their respective fields.

In this book, the views on the concept of security, causes of war, conflict development, and different positions or arguments around it are addressed, along with conflict prevention and the possibility of reducing the intensity of conflicts from both a historical and evolutionary perspective.

Additionally, the book covers the link between security and international relations, as well as the interaction with military force as an instrument for protecting state interests or exercising influence. The reader will be introduced to an overview of the main security documents in our country, the National Security Strategy, and the Military Strategy of the Republic of Albania.

A special place is given to the discipline of international relations, the role of the state, and other actors in international relations, their formative elements, and their role in the system. Another important element is the foreign policy of Albania after 1990, its orientation axes and actions, relations with neighbors, partnerships with strategic allies, and the values and interests articulated for advancing state and national interests.

The text also addresses the challenges we face today, the need to address them, and the means to respond to these challenges. Equally important is the role of naval power as an important element of influence, the implementation of maritime law, and Albania’s context in relation to delimitation processes with our maritime neighbors, as an area where strategic interests for national security and regional or broader influence are set and developed.

Today, we are in very sensitive conditions with many developments in international relations, especially due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. What should the Balkans and Albania, in particular, keep in mind?

Unfortunately, most of the challenges our continent faces today often have deep roots in history, and they often develop on a certain foundation, where understanding the past is a fundamental condition for sketching the future.

Our region has gone through a difficult journey to institutionalize peace, a peace that should not be taken for granted. The situation in our region, the effects of the war in Ukraine, and the destabilizing tendencies faced by the development and integration agenda of the Western Balkans from third-party actors make the interaction and completion of the EU membership process more immediate, as a project of peace and development.

Frequent conflict cases are occurring in the North of Kosovo, indicating that peace has not been fully established. How do you view the issue of Kosovo? Is there room for concern, interaction, or movement, and if so, what should these actions be, from Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, and the EU?

One of the chapters of this book is precisely about the political, diplomatic, and military processes that led to the dissolution of Yugoslavia and its legacy in the Western Balkans. It addresses a series of challenges left by its dissolution in the republics that emerged from this process, as well as the respective models for addressing these challenges.

The developments that took place last year in the north of Kosovo are a signal showing that dark forces in our region still have an agenda entirely different from the geopolitical orientation, affiliation, and interests of the people of Kosovo. Kosovo today is a vibrant democracy, oriented towards the rule of law, committed to being a state for all its citizens, equality of opportunity, but still must face forces that seek to return our region to the decades of the past.

Thanks to NATO’s presence in Kosovo, but also Kosovo’s orientation towards peace, not to mention its contribution to NATO, Kosovo enjoys special attention from the organization. However, destabilizing tendencies have highlighted the need for a solid alliance presence in Kosovo.

Finally, many investments are being made in the field of security, even the production of weapons is among the highest. Is the EU sufficiently prepared for a potential threat, and how do you see the perspective of international conflicts?

The war in Ukraine and its geopolitical implications have brought back the need for more focus and investment in defense and security. This situation should be seen as a good opportunity to conduct a clear analysis of the capacities, needs, and necessary investments within national security, but also in collective security and our role within NATO’s security framework.

Our country has transitioned in the past 30 years from a highly militarized society to a stage where defense was a non-prioritized sector. However, recent developments call for a reorientation of focus and policies that allow the strengthening of capacities, techniques, and the proper financial instruments to increase our engagement within the alliance.

In recent days, the EU has presented a plan for the rearmament of Europe, which foresees the engagement of around 860 billion euros in investments and projects for the security of the continent. Just a few years ago, it was almost unthinkable to consider the EU as an organism concerned with military matters, but the current challenge has revealed another aspect: the union’s flexibility in quickly adapting to new realities.

Given what you’ve discussed regarding the past, can you provide a parallel about what should be avoided and how to act to stay away from a potential conflict over territories and armed conflicts?

The history of our continent, and of the world, has passed through the motto “If you want peace, prepare for war,” which today remains as relevant as ever. The increase in military capacities, in many cases, has served as a deterrent instrument for destructive forces, so both NATO and the EU have focused on increasing defense spending, rearmament, and boosting national resilience capacities, which actually make up the majority of collective security within an alliance.

Maintaining and strengthening the transatlantic link is essential for us and our region, of course, responding with the speed that time demands in relation to processes that guarantee security. Continuing the commitment to democratization, peace, integration, peaceful conflict resolution, and interaction with all actors promoting freedom and universally accepted norms of international law is essential for us and our nation.

We must understand as a society that investments in defense and each of us contributing to national defense and security issues is not only a mission or duty, but it concerns the belonging to values that keep us united as a nation and society, as well as what we will pass on to our children, so we must embrace without hesitation any initiative that comes in this direction.

What lessons from the past should we consider moving forward?

For our good fortune as a nation, we Albanians have, at certain moments, known how to align ourselves on the right side of history, and throughout our existence as a state, we have only positive records in this regard. I am convinced that belief in the right values and following our trajectory is the right compass to navigate through times like those we are living.

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