In commemoration of this day, the highest state officials paid homage at the Martyrs’ Cemetery in Tirana.

The ceremony was attended by President of the Republic Bajram Begaj, Speaker of the Parliament Niko Peleshi, Prime Minister Edi Rama, Minister of Defence Pirro Vengu, the acting Mayor of Tirana Anuela Ristani, local officials, veterans, and relatives of the martyrs.

In solemn tribute to the Martyrs of the Nation, they laid wreaths at the ‘Mother Albania’ monument.

Albania remained under occupation from 7 April 1939 until 29 November 1944, first by Fascist Italy and, following Italy’s surrender in the autumn of 1943, by German forces.

After the liberation of Tirana on November 17, 1944, the General Command of the National Liberation Army in Tirana officially announced the liberation of Shkodra as well, 81 years ago, on November 29, 1944.

The National Anti-Fascist Liberation War is one of the most glorious events in our country’s history, not only because the nation was freed from the Nazi-Fascist occupation, but also because this victory placed Albania on the side of the winning forces of the war, alongside the major allies: the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union.

From south to north, nearly all regions, cities, and villages of Albania mobilized and contributed to the struggle against the occupying forces. In doing so, Albania became part of the Euro-Atlantic anti-fascist coalition — a partnership it continues today as a member of NATO.

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