Prime Minister Rama has been on a special visit to Rome, in the framework of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations of Albania with the government of the Roman Catholic Church, but what stands out is his company from the whole family.

In the ceremony, Rama honored with the highest medal that an Albanian prime minister can award, the ‘Big Cordon with a Star’, Cardinal Pietro Paroli, Secretary of State of His Holiness.

Rama also promised to build a shrine for Mother Teresa in Tirana, on a land that will be donated by the government.

During his speech, Rama said that Albania-Vatican relations were interrupted for many years as a result of a regime that did the most extreme harm to Catholics.

"I find it difficult to express enough gratitude to the church and Catholics. Today, more than ever, I would like to thank you for the brotherhood that has united the Holy See and the Republic of Albania for 30 years. 30 years ago, diplomatic relations were established between our two countries. On this jubilee it is time to honor the diplomats who are no longer alive.

The quality of our relationships owes much to the wisdom and spirit of cooperation. We still see the fruits of this. This relationship was severed because of a regime that did the most extreme harm to Catholics and those who practiced this religion.

On this happy day on the eve of our national holiday and on the 30th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations and on the 150th anniversary of the birth of the Franciscan and in the presence of so many celebrities I feel honored to be able to give you the highest decoration the title with the star cordon, moderated with our national colors”, said Rama said during his speech.