Politicians in Albania have extended their Christmas greetings to all Christian believers on the occasion of the holiday.
Prime Minister Edi Rama shared his message via social media, accompanying it with an image of the “Nativity” icon, painted in the 17th century by the teacher Kostandini from Vithkuqi, Korça, which has been recently restored.
“Good morning, and with this newly restored icon, a testament to the art and faith from the 17th century, I wish all Christian believers a Merry Christmas,” Rama wrote.
The leader of the Democratic Party (PD), Sali Berisha, also conveyed his Christmas wishes to believers.
“Merry Christmas,” Berisha wrote, sharing a photo of himself with his wife, Liri Berisha. “The blessings of this night to you and your loved ones! Merry Christmas,” concluded the message from the Democratic leader.
Albanian President Bajram Begaj emphasized that this sacred day, symbolizing the birth of hope and peace, is an opportunity to reflect on values such as love, solidarity, understanding, and forgiveness.
“On this holy day of Christmas, I wish to extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to you and your families. Christmas, this bright holiday symbolizing the birth of hope and peace, invites us to stop for a moment and reflect on the highest human values: love, solidarity, understanding, and forgiveness. To all Albanian families, both within the country and abroad, I wish a Merry Christmas filled with health, peace, and happiness,” said the President.
Ilir Meta, the leader of the Freedom Party, chose to share his message with Bible verses:
“Love is patient, love is kind. Love does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails” – Bible, Meta wrote.
“Merry Christmas to all Christian believers and the Albanian people!” he added.
“Christmas is the birth of hope and peace, the power of divine light over darkness, and confirmation of God’s love for humanity. May the blessings and warmth of God’s love always be with you, in every Albanian home, and especially with those facing poverty, illness, and injustice. Merry Christmas!” Meta concluded.
Tirana’s Mayor Erion Veliaj shared his greetings at the festive year-end concert in Skanderbeg Square.
“This square is more beautiful than ever this year-end, and I’m happy that all the work and sacrifice for the city’s children is being rewarded more and more every day. I want to wish a Merry Christmas to all grandparents. They have sacrificed so much, and they are perhaps the most humble generation, who lived through the most difficult situations in our history, but have contributed so much to the country. I’m happy that starting January 1, all grandparents will be able to travel for free on the bus, with the subsidized pass from the Municipality of Tirana.”
“Also, Merry Christmas to all wonderful parents in our city, who are raising these children. I wish a quick recovery to anyone who is ill, and to all those who are discouraged, may they find strength and courage. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your prayers, courage, and excellent cooperation in making this city truly European. Let’s not forget that from January 1, Tirana will be the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue: this means we’ll have endless activities where you can come and sing, dance. And even though I’m not very good at singing and dancing, I will always be in the front row clapping for you. Merry Christmas and blessings for everyone!” Veliaj said.
In a social media post, the Chairman of the Democratic Party – Euroatlantic Democrats, Lulzim Basha, wrote that this holy day reminds us of the boundless love of God, which lights up every darkness and gives us the strength to face any challenge.
He called on Albanians to look forward with hope, emphasizing that after darkness, light will come.
“Merry Christmas wherever you are! This holy day reminds us that the boundless love of God can light up every darkness and give us strength to face any challenge. Let this Christmas be a message of hope for every Albanian, for all those living in difficulty, an encouragement for the impossible, the sick, and those who are far from their loved ones,” Basha wrote.
“Let us look ahead with hope because after darkness comes light! May God guide us towards a better and more prosperous tomorrow for all Albanians! For many years to come, Merry Christmas!” Basha concluded.
