Croatia and Albania clash in a crucial Euro 2024 match, both needing a win to revitalize their campaigns and keep their qualification hopes alive. After disappointing losses to Spain and Italy respectively, both teams are desperate for points in Hamburg.
Croatia and Albania both need a win in their match on Wednesday to revive their Euro 2024 hopes after disappointing opening defeats. Croatia, despite their World Cup pedigree, fell to Spain, while Albania, playing in their second major tournament, narrowly lost to Italy. Both teams are looking to secure their place in the knockout stages, either by finishing in the top two or qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.
Albania has partially suspended its visa-free travel agreement with Belarus, requiring holders of diplomatic and service passports to obtain visas upon entry. This move aligns with Albania’s geopolitical stance and support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The decision reflects Albania’s solidarity with Ukraine and its efforts to isolate Russia and its allies.
Albania’s Vjosa River Delta, one of Europe’s last pristine deltas, is facing a major threat from planned mega-resorts and a new international airport. Environmentalists warn that these developments will irreparably damage the delta’s unique biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. The government, however, maintains that the airport and resorts are part of a vision for sustainable tourism that will protect the environment and benefit the local economy.
A new law, Law 21/2024, has raised concerns as it allows for the construction of luxury resorts in protected areas, including the Vjosa Delta. Environmentalists argue that the law undermines existing protections and will lead to a slippery slope of unsustainable development. The EU has expressed concern about the law and its compatibility with national and international biodiversity protection conventions.
The planned airport, located on the edge of the Vjosa-Narte Lagoon, is also facing legal challenges from environmental groups. The NGO Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA) is involved in ongoing lawsuits, arguing that the construction permit violates both national laws and international conventions.
The Vjosa Delta is a vital stopover for migrating birds and home to numerous endangered species, including Dalmatian pelicans, water frogs, flamingos, spoonbills, and loggerhead turtles. Environmentalists warn that the planned developments will disrupt the delta’s hydrology and coastal processes, leading to habitat loss and potential catastrophes such as sea-level rise.
Despite concerns from environmentalists, local communities are divided over the developments, with some viewing them as an economic opportunity. The government emphasizes its commitment to sustainable tourism and argues that the new law will ensure the holistic preservation of protected areas while allowing for compatible development. However, environmentalists remain skeptical, calling for a public outcry and continued legal action to protect the Vjosa Delta.
Booking.com reveals a surge in family travel searches this summer, with a notable 8% increase in accommodation searches and a 21% increase in flight searches compared to last year. Families are prioritizing quality time, relaxation, and cultural experiences in their travel plans, fueling an interest in destinations like Albania and Tokyo. Booking.com offers over 29 million listings worldwide, including 7.4 million alternative accommodations, making it an ideal resource for families seeking unique lodging options.
Minister Chris Philp has argued in favor of the government’s Rwanda scheme by citing successful examples of deterrence programs in Australia and Albania. He emphasized that these programs led to a significant decrease in illegal maritime arrivals and asylum seekers crossing the Channel. Philp stressed the need to stop the dangerous and unnecessary boat crossings and highlighted the positive impact of deterrent measures. The article also acknowledges Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s commitment to address the issue ahead of the upcoming general election.
