Besar Durmishi Criticizes Ferit Hoxha Remarks on Albanians in North Macedonia, Calls for Apology and Clarification

 Albania’s political discourse has sparked tensions after Economy Minister in North Macedonia, Besar Durmishi, publicly criticized comments attributed to Albania’s Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha regarding Albanians living in North Macedonia.

From the left Besar Durmishi and Ferit Hoxha

In a Facebook post, Durmishi described the language used by Hoxha as “disappointing and unacceptable,” reacting strongly to remarks in which the Albanian minister allegedly referred to Albanians in North Macedonia with offensive terminology. He emphasized that such language is inappropriate for a high-level state representative and violates basic ethical and professional standards.

Durmishi called for an urgent response and clarification from official Tirana, underlining that the issue requires immediate institutional attention. He further insisted that Hoxha should issue a public apology to Albanians in North Macedonia, stating that the remarks have caused offense and concern among the community.

Expanding on his criticism, Durmishi reminded Hoxha of his constitutional responsibility to care for Albanian citizens and ethnic Albanians living outside Albania’s borders. He stressed that Albanians in North Macedonia should not be viewed as “neighbors,” but rather as “an inseparable part of the national body,” highlighting the importance of national unity and mutual respect.

The statement also included criticism of Denion Meidani, Albania’s ambassador to Skopje, accusing him of remaining silent instead of addressing the controversy. According to Durmishi, this silence is equally disappointing, suggesting that diplomatic representatives should actively respond to issues affecting the dignity of Albanians abroad.

The situation has drawn attention to the sensitivity of political language in regional relations and the expectations placed on public officials when addressing ethnic communities beyond national borders.