Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that in the past three years, Albania has won 538 sports medals, thanks to significant investments and support for the sports movement in the country.

At the official ceremony welcoming the Olympic medalists at the Prime Ministry, Rama emphasized that “Albania now offers athletes conditions that were never available before.” He acknowledged that some had criticized the celebration of these medals, claiming they were not genuinely Albania’s achievements. However, Rama pointed out that these medals represent the efforts and cooperation of all involved in the sports sector.

Rama highlighted Albania’s medal record across various championships, including European, Mediterranean, and Balkan events, from 2021 to 2024. “In these three years, Albania has won 538 medals, covering different levels. These medals reflect a sports movement that has gained momentum in Albania,” he said.

Weightlifting, in particular, has been a strong contributor, with Albania earning five gold, six silver, and one bronze medal in 2024 at the European Championship for young men and women. Rama expressed confidence that these achievements are just the beginning of a successful future in sports.

Rama also discussed the legacy of Albanian athletes who have contributed to other countries’ successes, such as Luan Shabani, who won a gold medal for Greece. “When he brought Greece the gold medal, no one doubted his identity. We wish for more medals from our athletes, who are equally citizens of the Republic of Albania, and we are proud of their achievements,” he added.

The Prime Minister recalled that, before his government took office, physical education in schools had been discontinued for 23 years. “All the physical education teachers were left without jobs, and sports disciplines were sustained only by individual passion. At that time, the number of gyms across Albania was minimal,” Rama noted.

He contrasted this with the present situation, where new gyms are being opened regularly across the country, and over 10,000 children are now training in an organized manner with proper support from coaches and sports doctors. While Albania may not win world championships in sports like basketball, Rama believes this growing sports movement will bring significant satisfaction to fans and the nation alike.

“We also welcome athletes from other countries, regardless of their background, without trying to change their identity,” Rama concluded.

/k.s/