By Rafaela Prifti-“I came to Vatra to meet with you and listen to your concerns before starting the official part of my US visit in Washington DC,” said Kosova’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Meliza Haradinaj – Stublla at the Federation’s headquarters in the Bronx on Monday. In his welcoming remarks the President of the Pan-Albanian Federation of America, Elmi Berisha, described briefly the historic role of Vatra in the past and how it is best suited now to advance Albanian national interests. Vice-President for Political Affairs Alfons Grishaj weighed in on pressing issues that concern the Albanian nation. Members of the Executive Council and Board of Directors welcomed her at Vatra and echoed their concerns with regard to Kosova-Serbia negotiations etc.

Kosova’s Chief Diplomat praised the Albanian diaspora in the US and Vatra for its commitment and the successful lobbying for Kosova’s liberation two decades ago. Mrs. Haradinaj-Stublla said that it was an honor to visit Vatra as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kosova. Then she noted that “while we enjoy your successes in various areas, we also share your concerns. “ She put emphasis on the unity of the Albanian community in the US and impressed upon the need to infuse Kosova and Albanian regions with ‘the unity’ that is present here. In her first visit at Vatra, Kosova’s Chief Diplomat wished the community good health in the face of the pandemic before giving her remarks. Mrs. Haradinaj-Stublla appreciated the continuous efforts of the diaspora to support Kosova, recognized the importance of her meetings with US government officials and the significance of its timing in maintaining the strong relationship with “Kosova’s historic ally”, the United States. She stressed the urgency of standing united to counter an emboldened Serbia that is pushing to deny its aggressive actions and genocide towards Albanians.

Today Kosova’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora, Meliza Haradinaj-Stublla travelled to DC to begin her official visit and meetings at the State Department, National Security Council, Office of Foreign Affairs, Atlantic Council, and Heritage Foundation.