The President of the Republic of Albania, Bajram Begaj, in an interview for the Italian newspaper “Il Tempo”, shared his impressions after participating in the funeral ceremony of Pope Francis, describing it as a unique experience and an extraordinary sign of respect for the figure of the Holy Father.

“In a ceremony attended by leaders from all over the world – Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the United States, the Arab world and the Middle East – great respect was shown for this great religious and public figure. Pope Francis once again gave us a testimony of his greatness: a stream of people, from St. Peter’s Square to Santa Maria Maggiore, came to pay homage to him”, said President Begaj.

In the interview, the President also spoke about the special connection of Pope Francis with Albania, recalling that his first state visit outside Italy after his election as Pope was precisely in Tirana, eleven years ago. 

“It was a historic visit, comparable to that of Pope John Paul II after the fall of communism. A memory that will remain forever in the memory of our people”, he emphasized.

President Begaj also recalled the two meetings that he had with Pope Francis, in December 2022 and in May of last year, noting the attention and love of the Holy Father for Albania and the Albanian people. 

“Pope Francis had a deep knowledge of the Albanians since the time he was in Argentina, through the Arbëresh community of Buenos Aires. He was also very connected to the figure of Mother Teresa, the Albanian Saint whom he himself canonized”, said the President.

Speaking about attending the funeral, President Begaj emphasized the importance of religious coexistence in Albania.

“Our official delegation consists of me and two ministers, but the country's religious leaders are also present: Muslims, Orthodox, Bektashi and Catholics. This is a testament to our religious harmony. Just like twenty years ago, at the funeral of Pope John Paul II, Albanian leaders of all faiths were together.” he added.