The history of Albania’s independence is inseparable from recognizing the sacrifices and invaluable contributions of Kosovo Albanians, who have continuously stood firm in their support for the shared national cause.

At the reception organized by the Albanian Embassy on the eve of the 111th anniversary of the declaration of independence, the Ambassador of Albania in Kosovo, Petrit Malaj, highlighted the significance of Kosovo’s Albanians in their steadfast support for Albania’s independence. The event was attended by heads of state of Kosovo, ministers, deputies, and other distinguished guests.

Ambassador Malaj emphasized on the extensive journey of the Albanian people in their pursuit of independence and freedom, culminating in the historic raising of the national flag on November 28 in Vlora.

The Albanian diplomat cited that November 28 isn’t merely a date on the calendar but serves as a beacon of national identity, symbolizing the unwavering courage of the Albanian people in their pursuit of an independent Albania.

“In November 1912, Ismail Qemajli raised the flag in Vlora, proclaiming Albania an independent and sovereign state—a flame of freedom that continues to illuminate our present. This moment marked a shared dream and a nationwide awakening for all Albanians. Their struggle extended beyond defending the territorial integrity of an independent Albania; it encompassed the ideals defining us: freedom, sovereignty, and the right to forge our destiny. The history of Albania’s independence remains incomplete without acknowledging the sacrifices and contributions of the Albanians of Kosovo, who steadfastly supported our common national cause,” stated Malaj.

On this occasion, President Vjosa Osmani remarked, “Today, we collectively celebrate the significant holiday of Albanians—the Independence Day of Albania.”

Osmani emphasized that Albania stands as a democratic country championing the values of freedom and human rights, actively pursuing European integration, and contributing significantly to peace and stability within the region.

Prime Minister Albin Kurti extended congratulations on the 111th anniversary of the declaration of the Albanian state, emphasizing that November 28 signifies the day of the flag and the unification of state independence—a triumph for the Albanian people.

Moreover, Prime Minister Kurti continued by extending congratulations to all Albanians for the Albanian national football team’s qualification in EURO 2024.

Connecting three pivotal dates in the hearts of the Albanian people, Prime Minister Kurti expressed that “November 28 represents the cornerstone of freedom, the flag, unity, independence, statehood, and victory. The November 28 of Skënderbeu in Krujë in the mid-15th century, the November 28 of Ismail Qemali in Vlora at the start of the 20th century, and the November 28 of Adem Jashari in Prekaz toward the end of the 20th century, collectively form the historical thread weaving the fabric of our Albanian national identity.”

He underlined that during the intense campaigns of the Serbian armies, which extended to places like Durrës and Elbasan, Albanian patriots from diverse ideologies rallied together around the pursuit of independence. This unity culminated in the declaration of Albania’s independence on the afternoon of November 28, 1912, during the Assembly of Vlora. Reflecting on the approaching 111th anniversary, he highlighted Ismail Qemal Vlora, the head of that national assembly, as the first Prime Minister of independent Albania.

“As the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, I wish you the 111th anniversary of the declaration of independence of Albania and the creation of the Albanian state, starting our congratulations from today until November 28, for the freedom of citizens and equality between the peoples of our Balkan region of our European continent, for peace within states and between states all over the world, for lasting security for all and comprehensive progress for everyone”, he added.

Present at the ceremony, Minister for Relations with the Parliament, Eisa Spiropali, emphasized the reverence for exceptional figures from Albanian history, who devoted themselves entirely to the founding of our nation. Their legacy continues to resonate, illuminating our nation’s journey and guiding us along the shared path towards Europe.

/m.ll/