Albania has completed the voluntary repatriation from Syria of five Albanian citizens, including women and children, the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs announced Wednesday.

The operation concluded a lengthy and carefully coordinated process involving Albanian state institutions, diplomatic and consular missions, and the authorities of the countries involved.

The ministry said the repatriation reflects the Albanian state's responsibility to protect its citizens, even under difficult and complex circumstances. While their return marks an important stage in the process, authorities stressed that institutional responsibility does not end with their arrival home.

Upon returning to Albania, the repatriated citizens will receive the necessary assistance, including health and psychosocial assessments. Relevant institutions will continue working together on their accommodation, rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs thanked the Albanian institutions and structures involved in the operation, as well as foreign authorities — particularly Syrian authorities — for facilitating the completion of procedures and ensuring the citizens' safe transit.

The operation, the ministry said, underscores the importance of interinstitutional cooperation and coordinated action in fulfilling the state's responsibilities toward its citizens.

An interinstitutional task force will continue monitoring the rehabilitation and reintegration process and will work toward the repatriation of other Albanian citizens whenever the necessary conditions for their safe return are in place.