Speech by Prof. Dr. Zlatko Kramarić, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to Albania and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, at the traditional end-of-year dinner with the diplomatic corps accredited in Albania.
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Prime Minister,
Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,
Let me begin by extending my warmest wishes to Albania and all its citizens on the country’s path toward full membership in the European Union. This path is not easy, but it is clear, and, most importantly, Albania has shown determination and responsibility along the way.
I would like to congratulate the Government of Albania on its achievements so far: on advancing an ambitious reform agenda, on tangible progress in the fight against corruption and organized crime, on public administration reform, and on strengthening media freedom. These are results recognized not only in Brussels but also by all of Albania’s international partners.
Parliamentary elections have been successfully concluded and a new government has been formed, confirming the country’s institutional stability and the maturity of its democratic process. This moment is important not only for Albania’s internal political dynamics, but also for its European path.
The government now faces demanding yet encouraging tasks: continuing reforms, particularly in the area of the rule of law, further strengthening the independence of the judiciary, and maintaining constructive political and social dialogue. I am confident that, during its mandate, the new government will continue to build public trust and uphold a balanced relationship between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, as this balance is the foundation of a stable, credible, and European democracy.
Allow me to recall the words of Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ms. Spiropali, during her visit to Zagreb, when she was asked what Albania’s unique contribution to Europe would be. Her answer, in my view, was both powerful and inspiring.
It is, above all, Albania’s civic ecumenism—the fact that ethnic and civic principles prevail over religious differences. It is also the historical truth that during the Second World War, the citizens of Albania did not betray their Jewish community but protected it, often at great personal risk. This is a remarkable legacy of solidarity, humanity, and civic courage, which transcends the Balkans and belongs deeply to Europe’s moral heritage.
These values—tolerance, coexistence, and responsibility toward others—make Albania distinctive and render its European path both credible and compelling.
We, the ambassadors of the European Union, stand at your disposal. Albania’s success is our success, because a stable, democratic, and European Albania contributes to the stability of the entire region and to a stronger Europe.
Finally, and allow me a personal note to you, Prime Minister, I would like to congratulate you on the energy, vision, and political perseverance with which you lead Albania through challenging times. Europe values clear messages, but even more, it values those who turn them into reality.
To conclude, I wish all citizens of Albania a peaceful, successful, and European New Year.
And I raise this glass, / hoping that all our wishes, in this pre-Christmas and pre-New Year time, come true and bring peace to all people in the world—in Ukraine, in Gaza, in Syria…
Thank you.
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