Former US Ambassador to Albania, Marcie B. Ries who served in Albania from 2004-2007, says the culmination of her term marked President George W. Bush's visit to Albania.

Ms. Ries, has given a message as our country marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations with the US. She recalls on June 10 that Bush was welcomed in such a way that it seemed as if all of Tirana took to the streets for the big party.

"The highlight of my tour was the visit of George W. Bush to Albania, on June 10, 2007, the first visit of an American President to Albania. The warm welcome given to our President was amazing. It seemed as if all Tirana was in the streets for one enormous street party! There were flags everywhere, people in hats with stars and stripes, people looking out of windows, people waiving and smiling." This is how former U.S. Ambassador Marcie B. Ries remembers President George W. Bush's visit to Albania.

Throughout this week, we are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and Albania by posting messages by former U.S. Ambassadors to the Albanian people. Marcie B. Ries, who presented her credentials to the Government of Albania on October 30, 2004, was the sixth U.S. Ambassador to Albania.” Announced the U.S. Embassy in Tirana.