Hassan Shawky, Egypt’s Ambassador to Tirana, spoke today at the “Tirana, Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue 2025” event, emphasizing that Tirana and Alexandria are two cities rich in history and renowned for their exceptional cultures.

“Today, we gather to honor our two cities, Tirana of Albania and Alexandria of Egypt. These cities, both steeped in history and culture, exemplify what it means to be cultural capitals of the Mediterranean,” said Shawky.

He continued, “Tirana, with its beautiful fusion of traditional buildings and modern architecture, is a place that fosters cooperation and openness. The vibrant colors that fill the city are a testament to its deep-rooted culture”.

“Tirana has become a hub where ideas are nurtured, and the arts flourish, enabling us to share our stories and celebrate our differences,” Shawky added.

“Tirana, our companion to Alexandria, a Mediterranean gem, has always been at the crossroads of civilizations. It teaches us the importance of dialogue and the value of listening to one another,” the Egyptian ambassador emphasized.

“Tirana and Alexandria have embodied the spirit of coexistence. While we celebrate our shared history, we must also acknowledge that the challenges we face today, in a world often divided by barriers, require us to foster an environment of understanding and mutual respect. Culture is our bridge, it transcends all divisions,” Shawky concluded.

“As we combine our efforts, let us envision a future where both Tirana and Alexandria continue to thrive as cultural icons. In this, we will foster partnerships that empower youth and promote exchange programs, encouraging the learning of each other’s cultures, creating opportunities for cooperation, and sharing resources and ideas. This will fuel the innovation that defines both our cities,” said the Egyptian ambassador.

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