Albania's Drug Trafficking Concerns: Political Clash Highlights Narco-State Allegations

Ilda Zhulali, head of the External Relations Department at the Democratic Party of Albania, has addressed the recent clash between Prime Minister Edi Rama and former associate Arben Ahmetaj. Zhulali emphasized that the issue is not a personal confrontation but a significant concern about Albania's reputation as a gateway for heavy drugs in international reports.

Zhulali's comments come amidst heightened scrutiny of Albania's role in drug trafficking. International reports, including those from the State Department, have labeled the country as a narco-state. Zhulali stated, "Referring to the reports of the State Department, not just the statements made by Arben Ahmetaj, it is fully proven that we have returned to a narco-state."

Why this matters: Albania's reputation as a narco-state has significant implications for its international relationships and economic development. If left unaddressed, it could lead to increased isolation, economic sanctions, and a decline in foreign investment.

The German newspaper BILD has recently shed light on the networks and drug cartels operating in Albania, further contributing to the concerns expressed by Zhulali. The reports highlight Albania's involvement in cocaine trafficking routes, with drugs being transported from South America to Europe via Albanian ports.

Sali Berisha, head of the Democratic Party, has also been vocal about the issue, accusing Prime Minister Rama of building a state with deep ties to crime and corruption. Berisha has called for protests, urging citizens to demand Rama's resignation and the establishment of a technical government. Today, Albania appears before the public, European and world opinion, like the gas of the earth, a state of mafia, drugs and crime, Berisha declared.

The controversy has intensified with accusations from various political figures. Luciano Boçi, vice president of the Refounded Democratic Party, accused Rama of deceiving the public about a meeting with a Sinaloa representative who received a casino license. Boçi claimed that despite the license being granted, there has been no reaction from the institutions or the Prime Minister to revoke it.

Prime Minister Rama has responded to the allegations, stating that the license was granted to a family from Vlora and that the individual in question would assist in the management of the casino, not being the person who was provided with the license. Analyst Julian Zyla pointed out that the documentary presented accusations from the opposition as if they were from international media.

The escalating political clash and the increasing international scrutiny highlight the urgent need for Albania to address its drug trafficking issues. As Zhulali highlighted, the focus should be on tackling the root causes and restoring the country's reputation on the global stage.

Key Takeaways

• Albania's reputation as a narco-state has significant implications for its international relationships and economy.
• International reports, including the State Department, have labeled Albania a narco-state due to drug trafficking.
• Albania is involved in cocaine trafficking routes, with drugs being transported from South America to Europe via Albanian ports.
• Opposition leaders accuse Prime Minister Rama of building a state with deep ties to crime and corruption.
• Urgent action is needed to address Albania's drug trafficking issues and restore its reputation globally.