“It is a pleasure to meet with the senior officials of the Molise Region,” President Begaj said, emphasizing that each encounter with Italian authorities radiates the spirit of friendship that characterizes Albania–Italy relations and their strong bilateral cooperation across politics, economy, culture, education, healthcare, and more. He also noted the significant role of the Arbëresh communities and the new Albanian diaspora in continuously cementing the historical, cultural, and human connections between the two nations.

The Head of State emphasized that “Albania–Italy–Arbëria” is a project that strengthens the strategic partnership between the two countries and fosters new collaborations in areas of mutual interest.

In the Arbëresh community of Ururi, President Begaj attended the unveiling ceremony of the statue of the National Hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, an enduring symbol of Albania’s unity and national pride.

In his remarks, the Head of State highlighted the spiritual bond between Albanians and the Arbëresh, emphasizing that “Skanderbeg was not only a fighter but also a visionary and unifier, a forerunner of European Albania, forever connected to Western civilization. Today, he speaks to us through the spirit of unity and the national consciousness he bequeathed to us.”

In the Arbëresh community of Portocanone, President Begaj visited Skanderbeg Square, home to Arbëresh residents and Albanians who emigrated after the 1990s.

In his speech to participants at a welcome gathering organized by the local Arbëresh community, President Begaj praised their centuries-long efforts to preserve the language, customs, traditional costumes, and heritage of their ancestors. He also commended the respect the Arbëresh show toward ambassadors of national culture and distinguished artists who have helped ensure that Albania’s name is recognized and remembered with admiration and appreciation.

“It is a special feeling to be here today in Portocanone, a place that holds within it the history, memory, and living spirit of Arbëria. In this square, where Albanian and Italian words blend with affection, one can strongly feel what neither time nor the sea can separate: a language, an origin, a shared blood,” President Begaj said.

During his stay in Portocanone, President Begaj also participated in the installation of a sculpture by the great Albanian artist Ibrahim Kodra, who studied, lived, and practiced his art in Italy, and whose work has been exhibited and warmly received in nearly all Arbëresh towns and villages.

“Kodra belonged to Albania, yet he spoke the language of the world. He proved that talent knows no boundaries and that identity is never lost when transformed into a universal spirit. Today, in remembering Ibrahim Kodra, we celebrate the strength of the Albanian spirit to shine everywhere and acknowledge that art is the most beautiful bridge a nation can build,” President Begaj emphasized.

As in every Arbëresh community, in Montecilfone the President was warmly received by representatives of the Arbëresh community and Albanian compatriots who emigrated to the area after the 1990s.

The President also expressed his appreciation and respect for the Arbëresh community’s generations-long efforts to preserve their cultural and linguistic identity, highlighting the Study Center for Linguistic Diversity and the magazine “Kamastra” as examples of the valuable work of local scholars continuing the legacy of prominent historical Arbëresh figures.

“Only by sharing what we hold most dear — our language, culture, and memory — can we strengthen our shared identity. Thank you, Montecilfone, for your hospitality, your love for your roots, and for showing that Arbëria lives on in the language, spirit, and heart of every Albanian,” President Begaj said.

President Begaj also visited the Kampo Marina community, highlighting how the Arbëresh communities’ centuries-long efforts to preserve and uphold their distinct identity and heritage simultaneously reinforce the friendship between Italy, the country that welcomed and integrated them, and Albania, the land of their ancestors. He described these values as “the foundation upon which the enduring friendship between our two peoples is built.”
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