Tourism & Heritage: Montenegro’s Mamula Island luxury hotel is back in the spotlight after reports that the WWII-era fortress served as an Italian concentration camp, with renovations later backed by a 49-year lease to Orascom and the resort opening in 2023. Energy & LNG: Japan signed its first emergency LNG deal with Malaysia’s Petronas, routed via JOGMEC to supply private buyers, and it also reaffirmed energy cooperation with Montenegro on an LNG receiving terminal and a gas-fired power plant. EU Payments & Digital Finance: Albania’s branchless Jet Bank is positioning for closer integration with EU payment rules as SEPA access expands and EU digital identity wallets roll out—an angle that matters for the wider Western Balkans financial sector. Telecom & Media Production: Telekom Srbija is pitching itself as a regional production powerhouse, aiming to export Serbian content and attract international projects across the former Yugoslavia. Regional Water Security: A new analysis argues Western Balkan rivers are becoming strategic assets, pushing for an EU-backed “Balkan Water Pact” to prevent unilateral water diversions and manage shared basins. Maritime & Sanctions: A report says flag-of-convenience pressure is forcing Russian ships to re-flag, tightening enforcement against sanctions-linked oil flows. Industry & Consumer Tech: Azamara Cruises and Starboard launched onboard shopping rewards for guests, linking retail spend to a points marketplace. Montenegro in EU Context: EU enlargement commissioner Marta Kos said Serbia’s EU path hinges on reconciliation and rule of law, with Montenegro watchers likely tracking how Brussels sets standards.