Skopje, 7 April 2025 (MIA) – Arben Taravari, who leads one faction of the Alliance for Albanians and is part of the VLEN coalition from the Albanian political bloc, said they have not received an offer from VLEN to merge into a single party.

“So far, we have not received an offer from VLEN to become one party. If we do, we will decide then. But if they have already made that decision, we give then the name, they can keep the name VLEN. We, the five MPs from the Alliance, will continue as a parliamentary group, but we remain open to cooperation with everyone,” Taravari stated, denying that he has had any talks with the opposition DUI.

Asked about reports that he had received offers both from VLEN and DUI to be given 35 of the councilor lists and five mayoral candidates for the upcoming local elections, Taravari said that he had not held negotiations with DUI. As for the offer from VLEN, he described it as more of an ultimatum than an actual offer.

“I haven’t negotiated with DUI. VLEN sent me what I’d rather call an ultimatum ahead of yesterday’s party assembly. I never accept ultimatums, I prefer dialogue. We are ready to talk to everyone, especially with VLEN since we have been part of VLEN so far. But if the four of them decide to move on without us, we will accept that,” Taravari said.

When asked about a possible government reshuffle, Taravari pointed to a statement made earlier today by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, who said there are no such plans until after the local elections and that relations within the government are excellent as a coalition.

Photo: MIA archive