Addressing an event at Tirana’s main Skanderbeg square to thank voters following his sweeping victory in the Sunday’s elections, the government head praised Albanian expats, who cast their ballots for the first time in elections in the country.

“I would like to particularly thank Albanian citizens living in Greece, Italy, elsewhere in Europe and in the United States and anywhere else around the world for registering to vote in the parliamentary elections,” he said.

According to Rama, diaspora participation in the elections was impressive and historic.

Although the vote counting continues – Rama went on saying – “an overwhelming majority of Albanians in the country and abroad believe that Albania is heading in the right direction.”

Socialist Party has secured 83 seats in the 140-member parliament, according to preliminary results.

SP claimed over 52% of the national vote, marking a decisive win and a fourth consecutive term for Rama.

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