During his address at the event held in Tirana to mark Europe Day, attended also by EU Ambassador Silvio Gonzato, Prime Minister Edi Rama stated that the European idea was born out of the need to overcome historical divisions and conflicts. He emphasized that it created a common space without interstate borders, where peoples live and cooperate as equals.

Prime Minister Edi Rama highlighted that Europe emerged from the devastation of the Second World War through extraordinary faith in its own identity, creating a borderless space where peoples live together rather than against one another. He stressed that May 9 symbolizes the birth of the European Union as a unique political and historical project, and above all Europe itself as a cradle of cultures and histories united in exemplary peace.

Prime Minister Rama stated that May 9 does not only celebrate the European Union as an extraordinary political creation, but also Europe itself as a space where freedom and human dignity are non‑negotiable. He emphasized that despite current global challenges, Europe remains an indispensable project for peace and stability, warning against the risks of isolation, fear, and the erosion of trust in its fundamental values.

Prime Minister Edi Rama acknowledged that this is not a favorable time for Europe or the world. Yet, he stressed that precisely in such moments, Europe’s history teaches what must be avoided: closure, fear, and pessimism. Speaking about Albania, Rama emphasized that Europe remains for Albanians a dream, a national legacy, and an unchanging political mission, highlighting the country’s historical experience with isolation.

Prime Minister Edi Rama stated that Albanians know better than anyone else on the continent what it means to live in isolation and behind walls. He added that the strong popular support for European integration is proof of this historic commitment. Rama also noted that in Albania it is unique that a political party can gain broad support by pledging to pursue EU membership and implement the reforms required by the negotiation process.

Prime Minister Edi Rama highlighted Albania’s growing international profile, pointing to a major event in Tirana as a prelude to the World Law Congress—something unimaginable just a few years ago. He reaffirmed that Albania’s European path is an irreversible national project and a strategic commitment to the country’s future.

/sm/