On the eve of the 112th anniversary of the declaration of Independence of Albania, Tirana has become the center of national celebrations, welcoming Albanians from all over the world.

The Mayor of Tirana, Erion Veliaj, organized a reception at the Palace of Brigades, on the eve of the 112th anniversary of the declaration of Independence of Albania, where representatives of the Albanian communities from inside and outside the borders participated.

In his speech, Veliaj emphasized the importance of national unity and the wealth of traditions that unite Albanians.

“This is a moment that sums up our national unity and reflects the richness of our traditions. I am really very grateful and proud that the union of Albanian municipalities in the region is a union that connects the Albanian-speaking cities of the Western Balkans and plays an extraordinary and irreplaceable key role in the realization of this European vision of the cities of Albanian and European communities. Our cities are the reflection of our history and a rich history and, through these activities, we aim to stimulate an increase in interest to explore and appreciate this special wealth that we have”, said Veliaj.

He appreciated the role of the Union of Albanian Municipalities in the region, describing it as a key platform for strengthening cooperation between Albanian-speaking cities. The Mayor underlined that this cooperation goes beyond state borders and strengthens national and European ties.

“It is this cooperation and unity that makes us stronger and helps us face common challenges. Therefore, on behalf of the Municipality of Tirana and the Union of Albanian Municipalities in the Region, I thank you for your presence and wish you all a happy Independence Day. This November 28, we Albanians celebrate the 112th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Albania, it is one of those days when our heart becomes a mountain and when our soul turns red and black and when the mind of every Albanian thinks the same and loudly exclaims “Oh how good with being Albanian”. And what could be better than to celebrate flag day together here in Tirana”, added Veliaj.

The Mayor recalled historical moments from the road to independence, mentioning Ismail Qemali’s interviews on the eve of its announcement. He recalled the words of the Elder of Vlora on the importance of national feeling and unity over religious and political differences.

“… for Albania there is no time to lose, for Tirana there is no time to lose, for Pristina there is no time to lose, for Arbëresh Albanians there is no time to lose, for Albanians in Preseva there is no time to lose,
for the Albanians in Montenegro, not so much time to lose is the call that comes to us after 112 years because it is an urgent need to do good work, good deeds and to create healthy communities in Albania wherever we serve. And from this time that was lost for 600 years, a new time is born. Today, Albania and Albanians are in their best days. Does a difficulty scare us?  Do we frighten, do we retreat after every challenge, after every noisy minority that does not like a change a development a progress? Do we follow or follow the most difficult path, perhaps exhausting but which in the final leads us to the destination?! Thanks to great people who only consider big things and obstacles that appear and know how to give priority to grandiose goals, they see these challenges as little things that don’t even deserve to be fought verbally. Those who choose the difficult path and not the simple and comfortable choices are the ones who move the country, the city, the community forward”, underlined Veliaj.

In conclusion, Veliaj called for reflection on the past and joint work for the future:

“Today, regardless of where we are, from corner to corner, Independence Day was celebrated from Antony Albanese in Australia to New York City Hall this morning. Yes, I believe that the word of Ismail bey is the most correct answer. We are united by the cult of our common Motherland. Happy independence day, happy flag day and long live Albania, long live Albanians wherever they are”, declared Veliaj.

For November 28-29, the Municipality of Tirana has planned a series of social and cultural activities. For the second year in a row, this Thursday, the Municipality of Tirana will organize the parade of Albanians on the “Dëshmorët e Kombit” boulevard, where Albanians from all over the world will come together in Tirana in the pride parade.