In his remarks, Rama described the opening of the consulate not merely as the establishment of a diplomatic mission, but as a bridge connecting the two countries, emphasizing the historical and human closeness between Albanians and Italians.

“We are here today not to open a consulate in the narrow sense of the word, but to open a door between two realities that have historically been very close and that, in human terms, are very, very similar,” Rama stated.

The prime minister highlighted the strategic relations between Albania and Italy, but noted that the bond between the two nations extends beyond economic or political partnership.

“Italy is not just that. Italy is our European alter ego,” Rama said.

Referring to Naples, Rama drew a comparison with Albania, describing the Italian city as a mirror image of Albanians on the other side of the Adriatic.

“And Naples is our mirror on this side of the sea. We are proud of our culture. We want to be ourselves, not try to be like the people in Milan,” Rama said.

Rama concluded his remarks by expressing his pleasure at the inauguration of the Honorary Consulate and the presence of the Albanian flag alongside the Italian one.

“I am very happy to be here experiencing this moment of joy—a moment where, even though we are not, let’s say, proclaiming an ‘Albanian Republic of Naples,’ we have nonetheless opened a door together where Albania’s flag stands, and I am always happy to see it beside the Italian flag,” said Rama. /m.q/j.p/p.s./

The consulate, led by Honorary Consul Giuseppe Lettieri, will have jurisdiction over the Campania region and serve as a point of reference for the Albanian community, contributing to the provision of services and the strengthening of economic, cultural and social cooperation between Albania and Italy.

During his stay in Italy, PM Rama will visit the Department of Albanian Language at “L’Orientale” University, as well as “Parthenope” University, where he will attend a reception themed “Naples: A Bridge of Friendship, Cooperation and Development between Italy and Albania.”

The visit will conclude with a meeting with the rectors of Naples’ universities, where the Head of Government, together with Minister Mirela Kumbaro, will discuss opportunities for synergies with Albanian universities within the framework of internationalization. /gj.m/r.e/a.f/p.s./

Speaking at a meeting with Albanian citizens in Crete as part of his tour of meetings with the diaspora, the government head said that they will longer travel to Athens in order to obtain consular services.

“Crete is traditionally an island of impenitence. The most stubborn people in the history of this country have come from Crete. But you too must be among the most stubborn Albanians who have come, resisted and triumphed here,” Rama said.

The Premier assured them that an Albanian consulate will open and become available to them next year.

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