The mayor of Tirana, Erion Veliaj, presented the “Key to the City” to the British researcher and author Timothy Garton Ash. The researcher and writer Timothy Garton Ash is in Tirana to present his book ‘Vendet e mia’.

In his speech, Veliaj expressed great pleasure in hosting a distinguished historian and activist, Timothy Garton Ash, in our city. He noted that Garton Ash not only embodies the finest qualities of Great Britain but also represents the ideals of the Western world. His activism, which began in the 70s when he visited Albania, played a pivotal role in the struggle to emancipate and open societies following the fall of communism.

“I am delighted that you have returned to the 90s and are now visiting Tirana in 2023. This city, this country, always needs clear minds to enrich itself with the history of others and, perhaps, avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. As a historian, a friend, and an outstanding activist, I want you to embrace this city as your own. Thank you for your invaluable contribution and inspiration,” said Veliaj.

Historian Timothy Garton Ash mentioned that he feels very welcome in Tirana, which he found completely transformed, now ranking as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

“I first visited Tirana in 1978, and back then, it was a very different city, lacking the fantastic attractions it boasts today. It’s safe to say that it wasn’t considered ‘cool’ at the time. Now, 45 years later, thanks to you and your colleagues, Tirana has transformed into one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. This remarkable transformation proves that miracles can indeed happen,” he remarked.

Timothy Garton Ash is the author of 11 books that delve into the transformation of Europe over the past half-century. He holds the position of a Professor of European Studies at the University of Oxford, serves as a researcher and fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, and is a frequent contributor on international affairs for the British daily, ‘The Guardian’.

/m.ll/