Malaj on the occasion of the 111th anniversary of Albania's independence: The history of independence is not complete without Kosovo Albanians

The Albanian Embassy in Pristina marked the 111th anniversary of Albania's independence. At the solemn ceremony attended by Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, opposition leaders, mayors, and other guests, Albanian Ambassador Petrit Malaj stated that the history of Albania's independence was not complete without acknowledging the sacrifices and contributions of Kosovo Albanians, Kosova Press writes.

"The history of Albania's independence is not complete without recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of Kosovo Albanians, who have always remained unwavering in their support of the common national cause", Malaj noted.

Reflecting on the long journey of Albanians in their struggle for independence and freedom, which led to the raising of the national flag on November 28th in Vlore, the Albanian diplomat recalled that November 28th was not just a simple date on the calendar but a beacon of national identity and proof of the courage of the Albanians to establish an independent state.

"It was in November 1912 that Ismail Qemali raised the flag in Vlore, declaring Albania an independent and sovereign state, igniting the flame of freedom that still shines today. It was a common dream and a national awakening for all of us Albanians... They fought not only for the territorial integrity of an independent Albanian state but also for the ideals that define us: freedom, sovereignty, and the right to build our destiny", Malaj said.

Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani emphasized that Albania was now a democratic country that promoted the values of freedom and human rights, that it was on the path to European integration, and contributed to peace and stability in the region.

Prime Minister Albin Kurti congratulated on the 111th anniversary of the declaration of the Albanian state, stating that November 28th was the day of the flag, the unity of the state's independence, and the victory of the Albanians.

Independence Day in Albania commemorates the day when the Declaration of Independence of the Albanian state was signed in 1912.

The Albanian Declaration of Independence is a document adopted on November 28, 1912, during the assembly in Vlore, establishing an independent Albania and concluding the period of the Albanian national revival.

The members of the Balkan League attacked the Ottoman Empire in October 1912 to divide its Balkan possessions, which largely included areas inhabited by the Albanians who resisted the occupation of their settlements and organized volunteer units that offered strong resistance.

Initially, Albanian representatives fought for autonomy within the Ottoman Empire. However, after significant upheavals in the First Balkan War, when Balkan territories of the Ottoman Empire were divided among neighboring states, Albanians also decided to create an independent state.