Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj hosted a meeting with internationally renowned Albanian soprano Ermonela Jaho, just hours before her performance at the National Theater of Opera and Ballet (NTOB) for the Albanian audience. 

During the meeting, Veliaj gifted Jaho a symbolic representation of Tirana, the city’s Clock Tower. He explained that the Clock Tower symbolizes that it is always time to return home and invited Jaho to be a part of cultural activities that will culminate next year when Tirana holds the title of Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue.

“We are very grateful for your contribution. You are an ambassador for our country, the image of modern Albania, of working Albania, of good Albania, of Albania that believes in talent, sweat, and hard work. I hope that with this small symbolic gift of the Clock Tower, which will always show you the correct time in Tirana, you remind yourself that it is always time to return to your heart, to your home. And also to remember that next year we will be the Mediterranean Capital of Culture, so if you have friends, admirers, or partners who you would like to invite to do beautiful things in Tirana, we would be happy to assist,” Veliaj said.

Ermonela Jaho thanked the mayor for the recognition. “Thank you! This is one of the most beautiful gifts. Singing in Albania, in my homeland, in this theater where I grew up and where my dream started, has made me who I am today. I want to give back a little love and gratitude to this country and every Albanian heart,” she said.

/k.s/