The Mayor of Tirana, Erion Veliaj, honoured 10 veterans of the National Liberation War on Tirana's Liberation Day, "for their unparalleled contribution to the fight for freedom, the defence of the homeland from the Nazi invaders and the transmission to the younger generations of values, sacrifices and selflessness shown." 

During the speech held at the ceremony, Veliaj expressed his gratitude to those who sacrificed even their lives for the capital. 

"The liberators of the war, those who gave freedom to Tirana, our capital, unaided by Russian forces, who helped many other capitals, deserve today all our respect, all our humility and gratitude. So for all those young people of that time, who today are 90 years old and will be honored, I am glad that we have this organization, to reflect a little and to dedicate respect and gratitude to all those who made us today proud and lined up on the right side of history", said Veliaj. 

The Mayor also had a call to unite in the name of this day and the sacrifice of those who fell for freedom. 

"Today is also a moment to reflect. We must understand why our nation still remains divided? Why should we pay homage separately? Why can't we come together to respect and honour those people? Why do some of us enter through the door and others through the railings and the window? What happened? What is this curse that is not shared with us? How is it possible that after 79 years we are still divided. We must win the battle for a European Tirana every day and live every day to justify that sacrifice", said Veliaj, among others. 

Also, together with other political personalities and family members of the martyrs, Veliaj paid tribute to the Unknown Soldier in honour of the heroes who gave their lives for the Liberation of Tirana.