Vatican, March 25, 2024 – On the eve of Holy Week of Catholic Easter, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Igli Hasani, began an official visit to the Vatican, where he met with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations of the Holy See.
Minister Hasani emphasized that Albania’s relations with the Vatican go beyond institutional relationships, as they are spiritual and an inspiration for Albanians.
The two ministers also discussed developments in the region, particularly focusing on the need for dialogue normalization and stability, in the function of the EU integration of regional countries.
Minister Hasani participated in the conference
“Dialogue and religious fraternity as guarantees for peace”, organized by the Pontifical Gregorian University in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Albania to the Holy See.
He expressed that in a world characterized by conflicts, Albania’s experience shows that dialogue and religious fraternity are essential elements to guarantee peace.
“Albania is a living testimony to the transformative power of these elements, offering a unique example in this context. Through their joint efforts, Albanians have shown that unity in diversity is not only achievable but essential for building a more peaceful and harmonious society,” he said.
According to Minister Hasani, Albania has also played a constructive role in the international context, promoting interfaith dialogue and peace regionally and globally.
“Albania’s commitment to dialogue and religious fraternity offers hope for a peaceful future, characterized by cooperation, understanding, and mutual respect. Its inclusive and cooperative approach can be an inspiring model for other societies facing similar challenges, highlighting the transformative potential of mutual respect and interfaith cooperation in promoting peace and stability,” he emphasized.
Minister Igli Hasani’s visit to the Vatican coincides with the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’s apostolic visit to Albania and the 5th anniversary of the declaration “Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together”.
