TIRANA, July 9 /ATA/ – President Bajram Begaj said on Thursday that protecting the Albanian language and culture in Presheva Valley is part of the European system of values and the protection of minority rights.
During a visit to the municipalities of Presheva and Bujanoc, the Albanian head of state met local officials, including Presheva Mayor Ardita Sinani, Bujanoc Mayor Arbër Pajaziti, Albanian National Council President Enkel Rexhepi, and Albanian lawmaker in Serbia’s parliament Shaip Kamberi.
The talks focused on the concerns of the Albanian community, political unity and projects aimed at supporting young people.
Addressing the opening of the 2026 Albanian Book Fair in Presheva, Begaj reaffirmed Albania’s support for the rights of Albanians in the region, including fair institutional representation, the use of the Albanian language and national symbols, and concerns over the administrative deactivation of residential addresses.
“The rights and freedoms of Albanians in the Presheva Valley, and wherever they live, must be respected. They should be able to live here without discrimination, use the Albanian language freely, and preserve and promote their culture, identity and traditions,” he said.
Begaj said the protection of Albanian language and culture was not only a national issue but also part of Europe’s commitment to human rights and cultural diversity. He also encouraged young people to use Albanian not only at home but as a language of education, professional development and success.
The President pledged to continue advocating for the rights of Albanians in the Presheva Valley in international institutions and to support initiatives promoting Albanian-language culture and education.
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