The speech of the ambassador of Albania in Kosovo, H.E.Mr. Petrit Malaj at the reception on the occasion of the 111th Independence of Albania

Honourable President of the Republic of Kosovo, H.E. Mrs. Vjosa Osmani,
Honourable Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo Albin Kurti,
Honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Mrs. Donika Gërvalla,
Honourable Minister of State for Relations with Parliament Mrs. Elisa Spiropali
Excellences Ambassadors
Dear Government Cabinet Members,
Honourable, former President of the Republic of Kosovo,
Member of Parliament,
Politicians,
Political Party Leaders,
Extraordinary Personalities,
Media representatives
Dear friends,
 
Today we gathered to commemorate the 111th anniversary of Albania Declaration of National Independence, a day celebrated by all Albanians around the world as the Day of our National Flag.
As I talk in front of you, I am reminding the significant national figures who sacrificed their lives for this important historical day for the Albanians. They contributed to define who we are, to orient us what we should do, and remind us for the role which history has assigned us in these times we live in. We remember with gratitude Ismail Qemali, Isa Boletini, Luigj Gurakuqi, Hasan Prishtina, and many others who contributed with writing and weapons to this great historical
moment. As we gather today under the colours of our national flag, we reflect on the hard journey that has led us to this moment.
28 November is more than just a day on the calendar; it is an orientation light of our national identity, it is a symbol of our enduring spirit and a testament to the courage of our predecessors who envisioned and realized an independent Albania.
 
More than a century ago, they laid the foundations for the modern Albanian state, which would embark on a difficult and challenging journey in the international arena. In November 1912, Ismail Qemali raised the flag in Vlora, declaring
Albania an independent and sovereign state, lighting a flame of the independence that still lights today. It was a common desire and a national awakening for the Albanians.
As we honour this historical day, let us remember the sacrifices made by our predecessors. They fighted not only for the territorial integrity of the Albanian independent state, but also for the ideals that define us: freedom, sovereignty, and the right to shape our own destiny. Let the personality of Ismail Qemali and all those who died for freedom and independence inspire us to enlighten the nation and preserve our national, historical, and cultural values.
As Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the Republic of Kosovo, I stand in front of you not only as a representative of Albania, but also as a proof of Albania and Kosovo unshakable historical connection.
The history of Albanian independence would be incomplete without recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of Kosovo Albanians, who have always been firm in their support for our common national cause.
Today, while we commemorate our Independence, we also honour the Albanian people’s heroic spirit. A people defined by their, courage, bravery, and steadfast pursuit of freedom. It has not been an easy journey for us. We faced old and new challenges, but we overcame them together, with the springs from the unity and mutual support.
As the ambassador of the Republic of Albania, it is my pride and obligation to stand in solidarity with Kosovo, to celebrate each other achievements, and to work together to complete our common goals for the European Union.
Let us build the future on the legacy of our predecessors. Let us continue to build connections between Albania and Kosovo, now as two brother states with strong
Euro-Atlantic orientations, in coordination with our partners, by encouraging broad cooperation in education, culture, economy, and good governance. Let us work together to create a future in which all Albanians, regardless of where they live, can realize their ambitions in a region marked by stability, effective democracy, and respect for human rights.
 
Today, Albania has many reasons to celebrate proudly of its historic path of state building, a difficult journey with many challenges, but nowadays it stands on the right side of history, proud of the strengthening the rule of law as well as its successes on the Euro-Atlantic integration. It is a steadfast member of NATO, a candidate state which has started membership negotiations with the European
Union, a temporary member of the UN Security Council, and, most recently, a member of the UNESCO Executive Board. Albania is using powerfully its voice in these organizations to advocate for a peaceful and stable region, to bring it closer to the Europe to which it belongs.
 
Today, Albania is a witness to its people determination. Our journey towards European integration demonstrates our dedication for progress and the desire to be a part of a bigger community of nations sharing common values and aspirations.
To conclude, I would like to encourage each of you to be proud of our glorious past, to participate actively in our present, and to work together for a prosperous
future. Let us continue to be inspired by our National Day, November 28, 1912, and let this spirit lead us to a future, full of hope, prosperity, and strong solidarity.
 
Long Live Albania and Albanians worldwide!
Happy our National Flag Day.
Thank you very much.
 

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