Ferit Hoxha, Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, said that during his visit to Brussels discussions focused not only on the European Union, but also on the role of the Albanian diaspora.

In a post on the social platform X, Hoxha stressed that meetings with the diaspora are always an essential part of every program. Albanians living abroad, he said, remain an important force and a living link with Albania.

During the visit, Hoxha attended an evening event organized by the Embassy of Albania in Belgium to honor the dedicated work of teachers in Albanian-language schools across the diaspora.

“With dedication, patience, and love for our language and culture, these teachers keep the Albanian language alive far from home,” Hoxha said. “They nurture our national values among younger generations and strengthen their sense of Albanian identity.”

The minister described the work of Albanian teachers abroad as a noble mission that preserves children’s connection to their roots, history, and traditions.

He also expressed deep gratitude to teachers and parents who ensure that the Albanian language continues to live, develop, and pass from one generation to the next beyond national borders.

Hoxha highlighted the upcoming Diaspora Summit 2026, scheduled for April 14–15, 2026, in Tirana under the motto “Through Our Roots We Rise.” According to him, the summit will serve as another important moment of unity and dialogue to preserve and promote Albania’s linguistic, cultural, and spiritual heritage—the foundation of Albanian identity abroad.

Quoting renowned Albanian thinker Faik Konica, Hoxha concluded: “A nation survives through its language and its memory.” He added that teachers in the diaspora stand on the front line of efforts to keep both alive for generations growing up far from their homeland, yet carrying Albanian identity in their hearts.