Statement by H.E. Mrs. Vasilika Hysi, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Albania to the UNOG and other International Organisations in Geneva in the reception on the occasion of the National Day of Albania and Liberation Day,
Geneva, 27 Nov 2025,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Colleagues,
Dear compatriots
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a great honour to address you today as we celebrate November 28, Albania’s National Day – a day that marks the proclamation of independence of Albania in 1912 and the birth of our modern state. The 29-th November marks 81-th anniversary of Liberation Day. We commemorate the sacrifices and invaluable contribution of our patriots and national heroes to protect our homeland, language and national identity.
These days bring together all Albanians from Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro and the Presevo Valley to celebrate together. This occasion is not only a moment of pride for Albanians everywhere, but also an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the values of freedom, democracy, and multilateral cooperation. Celebrating these days here in Geneva, a capital of multilateral diplomacy, gives it an even greater resonance.
Albania has always believed that multilateralism is the cornerstone of peace and security. As a member of the Human Rights Council, we have worked tirelessly to advance the universality of human rights, strengthen accountability, and promote dialogue. Our engagement reflects Albania’s conviction that human dignity and equality are fundamental pillars of international order. We have supported initiatives dedicated to the empowerment of women and girls, the protection of vulnerable groups, and the strengthening of human-rights mechanisms worldwide and enhancing the civic space.
Beyond the Human Rights Council, Albania contributes actively across the UN system, supporting initiatives on sustainable development, gender equality, and humanitarian response. Albania has contributed to global peacekeeping efforts, supported the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, and engaged actively in international cooperation on climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and public health.
As we reflect on the progress of our nation, we also look toward the future—one deeply anchored in Albania’s European perspective. Although only 3 decades have passed since Albania emerged from the communist isolation, Albania has made extraordinary progress in its journey towards market economy, democracy and human rights. The transformation of my country over the past decades has been profound.
The EU integration process remains the central strategic objective of Albania’s foreign and domestic policy. The opening of all chapters of the accession negotiations with the European Union in 2025 is a recognition of the significant reforms Albania has undertaken during these years and marks a historic milestone. We are committed to working to close them by 2027.
Today, Albania stands as a stable, reliable partner and a contributor to regional cooperation and security in the Western Balkans. Albania is a factor of peace and stability in the region and beyond.
Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests
In 2025, the world marked the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Unfortunately, we are witnesses of many conflicts in different regions of the world, from the brutal Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, the conflict in the Middle East and its humanitarian consequences and other conflicts around the world which have devastating impact and affects millions of people.
On this National Day, Albania celebrates not only its independence, but also its place in the community of nations—a community with which we share values, responsibilities, and aspirations.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of Albania’s membership in the United Nations. This anniversary represents an opportunity to reflect on enhancing multilateralism, to work together to ensure lasting peace, alleviate human suffering and ensure respect for human dignity and human rights.
The 2025 marks also the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Switzerland and Albania. Switzerland has been one of Albania’s most stable partners in the last three decades, with a development contribution that has helped strengthen institutions, decentralization and local economic development. Switzerland’s active contribution to the Western Balkans is also appreciated, including support for the Western Balkans Fund and initiatives for regional stability and development.
The Albanian diaspora in Switzerland, a dynamic and integrated community, constitutes a great national asset and a strong bridge connecting our two societies. Relationships between our countries are a story of successful cooperation and mutual trust in bilateral relations and the multilateral fora.
I would like to express our deep appreciation to Mme Ana Roch, the President of the Grand Conseil, for honouring us with her presence today. Your contribution and the support of the authorities of the Canton of Geneva have been important in fostering the integration of the Albanian community. This commitment reflects the spirit of inclusiveness and respect that defines Geneva as a hub of international dialogue and human solidarity.
Allow me to express my gratitude to my compatriots who honour and exalt the name of Albania in the countries where they live. They embody and preserve the values and culture of their nation. Allow me to say some words in Albanian Language
Të nderuar motra dhe vëllezër shqiptarë nga të gjitha trojet
Kënaqësi që jeni bashkuar sot në ketë festë. Më lejoni që në emër të Misionit Permament të Republikës së Shqipërisë dhe emrit tim personal të shpreh mirënjohjen më të thellë për të gjithë bashkatdhetaret dhe bashkëadhetarët që nderojnë dhe lartësojnë emrin e Shqipërisë në vendet ku jetojnë dhe punojnë. Mirënjohje për kontributin që jepni në organizatat dhe intitucionet ku punoni dhe në shoqërinë zvicerane. Gëzuar festat e 28 dhe 29 Nëntorit!
Happy National Day! Thank you.
