Albanian leaders and politicians have offered their condolences following the death of Queen Elizabeth II of England, while the Mayor of Has, Liman Morina said a bust of the monarch will be erected in the town.
In a post on Twitter, President Bajram Begaj says that Elizabeth II will always be remembered.
“Condolences to the Royal Family, the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. She was a queen with a big heart, extraordinary strength and courage and will always be remembered with respect and admiration,” he wrote.
Queen Elizabeth II was the UK’s longest-serving monarch who died at 96 in Balmoral, Scotland, on Thursday after reigning for 70 years.
Prime Minister Edi Rama posted a photo of the Queen, writing, “Goodbye Queen”.
Foreign Minister Olta Xhacka also offered her condolences.
“Great pain news about the death of Queen Elizabeth II. During her 70-year reign, she gave guidance, motivation, vision and stability to the United Kingdom and its people. Queen Elizabeth was also a symbol of respect and admiration for the rest of the world. Our deepest condolences to the royal family and the people of the United Kingdom on this sad day.”
The flag at the British Embassy in Tirana is now flying at half mast and will likely remain so until the funeral takes place in nine days.
Prince Leka also tweeted his wishes, calling her “the living proof of the embodiments of national sovereignty in its most unifying aspect.”
“Elizabeth II represents the timeless message of the continuity of the state, of the Crown, standing steadfast with commitment and self-awareness in the face of challenge and uncertainty.”
He added that she was a distant relation of Queen Geraldine and will “remain a mentor to anyone who aspires to serve the national interest, wherever he is, and the greatness of the state that is the shelter and shield of society.”
Former Democratic Party chairman, Lulzim Basha said, “My prayers are with the Royal Family and our friends and allies in the UK and the Commonwealth as they mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen will forever be remembered for her legacy of devotion to her people and to peace and welfare of the entire world.”
Meanwhile, the former president and current opposition party leader, Ilir Meta wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, admired around the world for her inspirational leadership, dedication and unwavering commitment! My sincere condolences to the @RoyalFamily, the British people and the entire Commonwealth on this great loss!”
But in the northern municipality of Has which has seen record numbers of inhabitants leave for the UK through both legal and illegal means, a statue of the Queen will be erected.
Mayor Liman Morina said the decision will be formally take at the next Municipal Council meeting, while adding the bust would be financed my emigrants.
“Those from Has have benefited from the United Kingdom and over 80% of Has families are fed and supported by the UK [through remittances from family members]. The Municipal Council will take this decision this Monday on the exact placement of the site. It will be located in the central square. The financing will be done by immigrants living in the United Kingdom”, he said.
