TIRANA, May 2 /ATA/ – President of the Republic Ilir Meta has praised the role of Arberesh as the best promoters of natural beauties and tourist spots in Albania.
Meta attended on Wednesday the activity held in Kruja museum by Arbëresh Association from Calabria “Magna Grecia Off-Road”, which commemorates the historic journey of our national hero Gjergj Kastriot Skënderbeu through his return from Istanbul to the Arberesh centre.
The contribution of Arberesh, according to Meta, is crucial in strengthening the relations between Albania and Italy.
In his remarks to the participants, President Meta stressed there is an inseparable trinomial: Skënderbe – Arbëreshë – dhe Shqipëri.
“Without Scanderbeg, the Arberesh would not have existed. Without the Arberesh, we could have lost the figure of Scanderbeg. Through Arberesh, the figure of Scanderbeg made a comeback to these territories to inspire the National Renaissance which brought independence in Albania.
We have nothing but gratitude to Arberesh people, the President said, adding that in centuries they have passed down to generations the language, traditions, culture, religious rituals, love for their ancestors and worship of Scanderbeg. They have made an immense contribution not only during the National Renaissance but also later in history.
This is the pan-national year of Scanderbeg. We are optimistic it will see the opening of EU accession negotiations with Albania.
The event named “Arberesh following the paths of Scanderbeg” started off with the screening of documentary “Arberia of Calabria.” In attendance were Minister of Culture Mirela Kumbaro, Honorary Counsel of Albania in Calabria, Aldo Marino, Deputy Mayor of Kruja Ilir Loci, Giussepe Russo, president of Arberesh association “Magna Grecia Off-Road”, former lawmaker Namik Dokle and Irena Toçi director of Book and Promotion Institute.
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