The political atmosphere in Albania has recently been marked by an important moment of solidarity, one that goes far beyond local politics and speaks directly to the values of justice, democracy, and international friendship. Tirana’s Mayor, Erion Veliaj, publicly expressed his gratitude to citizens through a Facebook post, acknowledging the continuous support he has received—especially during challenging periods involving legal and political uncertainty.
Among the many supportive messages Veliaj highlighted, one stood out with enormous symbolic and emotional weight: a letter sent by the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, who is currently detained in Silivri Prison. This letter, made public by Veliaj, immediately captured widespread attention across Albanian social networks due to its powerful tone of encouragement and its strong commitment to democratic values.
A Gesture of Gratitude Toward Albanians and International Allies
Erion Veliaj emphasized his appreciation for the countless supportive messages he receives daily. His words underlined the emotional connection he maintains with the people of Tirana and with international partners who recognize the importance of democratic continuity and fair governance.
With particular warmth, Veliaj thanked İmamoğlu—calling him a “dear friend”—and published his letter as an example of the broader international solidarity that transcends borders:
“With deep gratitude for all the letters and supportive words you send me every day, which I value immensely, I am sharing this encouraging letter from my friend, the Mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, whom I thank from the bottom of my heart.”
Ekrem İmamoğlu’s Letter: Democracy, Resilience, and Shared Struggles
Writing from confinement in Silivri Prison, Ekrem İmamoğlu sent a heartfelt message to Veliaj after the Constitutional Court of Albania restored Veliaj’s elected mandate as Mayor of Tirana. His words reflected admiration, friendship, and a shared commitment to democratic governance.
İmamoğlu described receiving the news with “deep satisfaction,” emphasizing that the Court’s ruling represented more than a personal victory—it was a reaffirmation of democratic order, the rule of law, and the sovereign will of Tirana’s citizens.
He also recognized the difficulties Veliaj has recently faced, noting that:
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justice may be delayed but cannot be denied,
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democratic institutions gain strength when leaders remain calm and principled,
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struggles for democracy are universally interconnected.
İmamoğlu highlighted Veliaj’s “quiet strength” and “moral clarity,” praising the way Veliaj continued serving Tirana and contributing to the Balkan Cities Network B40 even while under pressure. He wrote that democracy is upheld not only by institutions but by those who defend it with integrity, courage, and conviction.
This message resonates strongly with many Albanians who see democratic challenges not only in their own country but across the region.
A Regional Message: Democracy Connects Tirana and Istanbul
One of the most striking elements of the letter was İmamoğlu’s insistence that democratic struggles are shared beyond borders.
“The fight for democracy in one country is, at its core, a fight for democracy everywhere.”
This shared narrative strengthens the symbolic relationship between Tirana and Istanbul, two major cities whose leadership has actively encouraged cooperation through networks like B40, which promote dialogue, development, and good governance across the Balkans and surrounding regions.
A Moment of Symbolic Strength for Albanians
For many Albanians—both inside the country and in the diaspora—the letter served as a reminder that Albania’s democratic journey is noticed and supported internationally. It also reinforced Veliaj’s position not only as a local leader but as a figure involved in wider regional cooperation.
While Veliaj thanked İmamoğlu for his friendship, İmamoğlu concluded his letter with optimism for the future:
He expressed the hope that the two mayors will soon meet again as colleagues and friends, united by a shared belief in the promise of democracy.
Why This Moment Matters for Albania
This exchange between Veliaj and İmamoğlu is more than a political gesture; it is a symbolic reaffirmation of:
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Democratic legitimacy,
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Support for elected governance,
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Regional solidarity,
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Hope for institutional fairness,
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Human connection amidst political pressure.
For Albanians, especially those following the fragile balance of democratic reforms, moments like this hold significant meaning. They show that Albania’s internal political dynamics matter not only domestically but also to international democratic leaders—especially those facing struggles of their own.
The letter from Ekrem İmamoğlu to Erion Veliaj marks a powerful moment in the ongoing narrative of democracy in Albania and the region. Veliaj’s public expression of gratitude and İmamoğlu’s message from prison create a compelling image of solidarity, resilience, and shared democratic commitment.
At a time when democratic institutions face pressure globally, this exchange reminds Albanian readers—and the world—that integrity, courage, and unity remain essential in protecting the values that shape free societies.