The Birthday of the Albanian state, November 28th. One hundred years ago the old man of Vlora, Ismail Qemal Bey Vlora made the dream and the efforts of many Albanians to have an independent state a reality. It was on this day that delegates from all the regions of Albania came together under the direction of the Elder of Vlora and signed the Declaration of Independence and raised the national flag. On that day Muslim, Orthodox, Catholic and Bektashi come together. Today, we are proud of all of those people that are signators. We feel good also when we see among them Orthodox people such as Dhimitër Tutulani, Jorgji Karbunara, Lef Nosi, Petro Poga , Aristidh Ruci, Pandeli Cale, Thanas Floqi, Spiridon Ilo, Jani Minga, Dhimitër Zografi, Dhimitër Mborja, Dhimitër Berati e Dhimitër Ilo. This reveals that the Orthodox were always found ready to give their assistance when the nation was in difficult moments. Three of the Orthodox signatures: Lef Nosi, Petro Poga and Pandeli Cale were elected members of the first Albanian government led by Ismail Qemal. Today, after 100 years in the Square of the Flag in Vlora, as then, Muslim, Orthodox, Catholic and Bektashi from all the regions were Albanians live gathered together to commemorate the birthday of the Albanian state, and to enjoy and celebrate together. Celebrations in Vlora have been underway for days and the guests approved once again of the generosity and hospitality of the citizens of Vlora.
Thousands of people in the early hours of the morning filled the Flag’s Square and the surrounding streets. Attending were the President of the Republic Mr. Bujar Nishani, Prime Minister Mr. Sali Berisha, Parliament Speaker Mrs. Jozefina Topalli, the President of Kosovo Mrs. Atifete Jahjaga, the Prime Minister of Kosovo Mr. Hashim Thaci, the diplomatic corps, President of the Opposition Mr. Edi Rama, members of the Albanian government, intellectuals and many other invited guests. Also present were representatives of the Muslim, Bektashi, Roman Catholic and Orthodox Communities. The Orthodox Church was represented by the Bishop of Berati, Vlora and Kanina, His Grace Ignati.
At 10:00 the official ceremony began. The President, Mr.Bujar Nishani raised the flag and then laid a wreath of flowers at the monument tomb of Ismail Qemali. Then the Mayor, Mr. Shpëtim Gjika, offered his greetings for this event in which he welcomed all the people present. After the Mayor’s speech, came the speech of the president Bujar Nishani. After this ceremony, everyone headed to the sports palace to attend the festive concert prepared for this occasion. At this concert the Bishop of Berati, Vlora and Kanina, His Grace Ignati was present..
The feast in Vlora continued throughout the day. Singers and groups of dancers from all the regions of Albania were seen in all the streets singing and dancing. It was truly a great joy. With this article we wish everyone Happy 100th Anniversary of Independence.
Atë Spiro Bulika
