Albania reaffirms support for Albanians in Presheva Valley
Albanian President Bajram Begaj and Minister of State for Relations with the Parliament, Taulant Balla, held separate meetings with Shaip Kamberi, the Albanian representative from the Presheva Valley in the Serbian Parliament. The discussions emphasized Albania’s unwavering commitment to supporting the rights of Albanians in the Presheva Valley.
Why is this important: The well-being and equal treatment of Albanians living in the Presheva Valley remain a sensitive and high-priority issue for Albania, particularly as it seeks to foster stability and promote European standards of minority rights in the region. The meetings underscore Albania’s active engagement in advocating for these communities’ rights and the necessary improvements in their economic, social, and political conditions.
Context: The Presheva Valley, consisting of the municipalities of Presheva, Bujanovc, and Medvegja, has a significant Albanian population facing long-standing challenges, including discrimination, economic disadvantages, and lack of political representation. Addressing these issues has been a key point in Albania’s diplomatic relations with Serbia and the region.
President Begaj’s meeting: During his meeting, President Bajram Begaj discussed the pressing issues affecting the Albanian community in the Presheva Valley. He assured Kamberi of Albania’s full support and emphasized the critical importance of recognizing and protecting the rights of these communities. “The issues facing the Albanians in the Presheva Valley remain a top priority for us until they are resolved,” Begaj said. He highlighted the upcoming opening of the Albanian Consulate General in Bujanovc as a significant step forward.
The President also condemned punitive actions against the use of national symbols, such as the Albanian flag, stressing that such penalties have no place in the 21st century. He further called on international partners to address the suspension of residential addresses and recognize diplomas earned in Albania and Kosovo.
Minister Balla’s meeting: Minister Taulant Balla echoed this commitment in his meeting with Kamberi, emphasizing the need for economic, social, and political equality for the Albanians in the region. Balla underlined the importance of eliminating discriminatory practices that hinder effective integration and participation in society. “The demands of the Albanian population in the Presheva Valley for eliminating economic, social, and political inequalities are fair and must be addressed in the spirit of European standards,” Balla stated.
What’s next: He also stressed the need for collaborative efforts between Albanian institutions and representatives to advance the rights of the community and improve living conditions. Balla underscored the importance of aligning with international principles for the protection of minority rights. This coordinated approach from Albania comes at a time when the situation in the Presheva Valley continues to be problematic and reinforces Albania’s role as an advocate for the rights and well-being of the Albanian community in the region.
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