The first group of refugees fleeing the Taliban after their takeover of Kabul have arrived in our country in the early morning hours. 121 men, women and children were subject to the mandatory security checks at the Rinas airport before heading to their temporary residences set up at several hotels in the city of Durres.

US ambassador Yuri Kim and foreign minister, Olta Xhacka were present at the airport upon their arrival.

Calling the arrival of the first refugees an emotional moment, minister Xhacka stated that Albania has accepted to temporarily shelter around 4.000 Afghans, while their documents get processed for their final destination, the US.

“The group arriving today, which is the first group, will be housed at a hospitality structure in Durres. Meanwhile, as we wait for the peak of the tourist season to normalize, and for the hotel capacities to start freeing up, we’ll bring in the additional groups that will be arriving in the days to come, during which time will be providing them shelter at the student dorms of QS,” said minister Xhacka, during her visit at Rinas airport.

In addition, the US ambassador praised the hospitality shown by Albanians at such a difficult moment for the Afghan nation, while calling Albania a friend and dignifying partner of the United States.

“As they have always done, the people of Albania are once again providing hospitality & protection to those in greatest need. We are proud to call you a friend & ally. Thank you,” wrote the US ambassador on Twitter.

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