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The first former US ambassador to Albania after the fall of communism, William Ryerson, emphasizes that the time has come for change in Albania, as happened in 1991, when communism was finally overthrown.
On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Secretary Baker’s visit to Tirana, the former US Ambassador emphasizes that he has reflected on the developments in Albania during these 31 years, saying that “The time has come again for change.
“As we were with the change-makers of 1991, I and the other American friends of Albania are now with this generation of change-makers.”
Full message:
“As we approach, this month, another anniversary of Secretary Baker’s visit to Tirana, I have reflected on developments in Albania over the next 31 years. The official hostility to the US so obvious before, was erased and replaced with the renewed friendship between the United States and Albania, which has only strengthened from year to year.
Since then, Albania has joined NATO, sits close to the United States in the UN Security Council, and has done the hard and necessary work of joining the European Union.
Now, after 31 years, it is clear that a new generation of Albanians is ready and eager to write a new chapter in the history of Albania.
It encourages me that these young people understand that Washington strongly supports progress towards promoting the rights but also the responsibilities expected of NATO and EU member states, strengthening the rule of law, and eliminating corruption.
The time has come again for change. Just as we were with the change-makers of 1991, I and the other American friends of Albania are now with this generation of change-makers.
The time has come for the old generation to pave the way for a new generation of leaders to liberate Albania from the terrible ghosts of the past and to lead the country to the future.
“I wish them every success, as they lead the country I fell in love with,” he said.
William E. Ryerson served as the first ambassador of the United States of America (1991-1994), after the fall of communism and the restoration of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
/Klara Ruci/
