U.S. Lifts Travel Ban on Former Albanian Leader Sali Berisha

Former Albanian leader Sali Berisha announced the lifting of a U.S. travel ban placed on him in 2021. The U.S. State Department lifted the ban after reviewing his case, citing a compelling national interest. The decision coincides with ongoing protests in Albania against a luxury resort development.

Former Albanian leader Sali Berisha revealed on Friday that the United States has revoked a travel ban imposed on him in 2021. Berisha, the opposition leader, claimed that the U.S. State Department had previously barred him and his family due to alleged corrupt acts during his leadership period.

He announced on Facebook that following a comprehensive review by the State Department, he and his family are now permitted to travel to the United States. Berisha criticized the previous administration's decision as unfair and expressed relief over the correction of this action.

A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department confirmed to Reuters that waivers were granted for certain designations, highlighting these align with national interest priorities. The timing of this decision aligns with protests in Albania against a luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law.