Skopje, 16 September 2023 (MIA) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs encouraged Saturday all Macedonians in Albania to freely express their ethnic, linguistic and religious affiliation, in line with the regulations and positive democratic practice in Albania, at the coming census in the country that begins next week.

"Albania is recognized across the globe by its multiethnic and multicultural society, upon the model of North Macedonia, representing an invaluable authentic, political and cultural heritage. Recognizing the role of Macedonians as loyal citizens of Albania, the coming census will enable them to freely express their identity and thus confirm their own ethnic, linguistic, religious and identity background. This will reaffirm the role of the Macedonian ethnic community in Albania, by building bridges of friendship between the two countries," the MFA said in a press release.

It added that institutions in North Macedonia will remain in intensive contact with representatives of the Macedonian ethnic community in Albania and counterpart institutions on issues related to identity.

"We are continuing our active engagement in the protection and promotion of these rights in the same way as before," said the MFA.

Photo: MIA archive