Less than two years after Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama announced plans for the creation of a sovereign Bektashi state in Tirana, the project appears to be entering a new phase, with leaders of the Bektashi Order reportedly preparing for the formalization of its status and the establishment of initial diplomatic structures.
French intelligence and geopolitical affairs outlet Intelligence Online reports that what could become the world’s smallest state—frequently compared to a “Muslim Vatican”—could be formally recognized by Albanian authorities in the coming months.
According to the report, beyond its potential legal status, Bektashi leaders are also considering the creation of state symbols and institutions, including a possible currency called the “bek,” passports, and diplomatic representatives abroad.
Currency and passports
Bektashi officials and their spiritual leader, Edmond Brahimaj, better known as Baba Mondi, are reportedly laying the groundwork for the proposed state. Intelligence Online says the leadership is considering issuing its own currency, reportedly called the “bek,” which could potentially be pegged to the price of gold.
Bektashi authorities are also expected to issue passports. Baba Mondi has regularly received foreign delegations at the World Headquarters of the Bektashi Order in Tirana, including representatives of the Israeli Foreign Ministry late last year.
The World Headquarters is also reportedly working on the diplomatic front, with envoys appointed under Ambassador-at-Large Kreshnik Grezda.
Diplomatic representatives abroad
According to the French outlet, Christopher Hyland has been appointed as the representative for the United States. Hyland, a New York-based luxury textile entrepreneur, was reportedly involved in Bill Clinton’s successful 1992 presidential campaign, serving as deputy national political director for ethnic communities.
For France and Belgium, the representative is reportedly Hazis Vardar, a Belgian entrepreneur of Albanian origin involved in the cultural sector. Vardar has directed several theatres and museums in Europe and elsewhere and co-founded the Albanian OSINT company DataSentinel Balkans in late 2024.
The company reportedly works with French firms specializing in cybersecurity and open-source intelligence to support its activities, including monitoring influence operations and reputational risks.
If confirmed and formally established, the Bektashi state would occupy approximately 11 hectares in Tirana, making it considerably smaller than Vatican City and potentially the smallest sovereign state in the world.
