photo:Butrint@communications-unlimited.nl

By Beata Bruggeman-Sekowska

On November 28, Albania celebrates its Independence Day, marking the moment in 1912 when the country declared freedom from the Ottoman Empire. This pivotal day, known as Dita e Pavarësisë or Festa e Flamurit (Flag Day), symbolizes the unity and resilience of the Albanian people. The declaration was made in the town of Vlora by Ismail Qemal bey Vlora, a prominent leader of the Albanian independence movement, supported by Austro-Hungary amidst the geopolitical upheaval of the First Balkan War.

Fearing invasion by neighboring countries like Greece, Bulgaria, and Montenegro, 83 delegates convened in Vlora to proclaim Albania an independent state. Though initially symbolic, the declaration gained international recognition. On December 17, 1912, the London Conference of Ambassadors recognized Albania’s de facto independence, and on July 29, 1913, Albania was formally acknowledged as a sovereign principality.

Today, Independence Day is a vibrant public holiday in Albania. Streets and balconies are adorned with the national flag, commemorating both the 1912 declaration and the historic raising of the Albanian flag by national hero Skanderbeg in Krujë on November 28, 1443. Parades, cultural events, and moments of remembrance highlight this day of national pride.

The History of Albania-Netherlands Relations

Diplomatic relations between Albania and the Netherlands began on November 18, 1970, marking the culmination of years of efforts. Initial interactions date back to the late 1950s, when Dutch entities showed interest in Albania’s raw materials and potential trade ties following Albania’s accession to the UN in 1955.

Key milestones include:

• Early Proposals for Relations: Albania proposed establishing diplomatic ties in 1962. However, the Netherlands declined, citing limited trade prospects, personnel constraints, and skepticism about the operating conditions for Western diplomats in Albania. Despite this, Dutch entities, like KLM Airlines, advocated for closer relations.
• Changing Geopolitical Dynamics: Albania’s departure from the Warsaw Pact in 1968 prompted a reevaluation of relations. In 1970, the Netherlands initiated discussions, emphasizing their respect for Albania’s independence and commitment to fostering trade, cultural, and diplomatic ties.
• Diplomatic Milestone in 1970: The joint communiqué establishing diplomatic relations was publicly announced on November 18, 1970. For years, Albania’s diplomatic presence in the Netherlands operated through its embassies in Paris and Brussels. It wasn’t until February 24, 1997, that Albania opened a resident embassy in The Hague.

Since then, relations have flourished, supported by Dutch initiatives like the Matra Rule of Law Program and EURALIUS, aiding Albania’s judicial reforms and EU accession efforts. The Netherlands is also a major investor in Albania and a partner in tourism and cultural exchange.

Albanian Community in the Netherlands

The Albanian diaspora in the Netherlands has grown significantly, with estimates suggesting a population of around 60,000 ethnic Albanians, including approximately 20,000 Kosovo Albanians who migrated after the 1999 Kosovo War. Many Albanians in the Netherlands are engaged in various sectors, contributing to the Dutch economy and enriching cultural diversity. The Albanian Embassy in The Hague plays a pivotal role in supporting the community and strengthening bilateral ties. The Albanian diaspora actively celebrates key national holidays, including Independence Day, maintaining strong cultural and emotional ties to their homeland. These efforts continue to bolster the relationship between Albania and the Netherlands, creating bridges of understanding and cooperation.

Author: Beata Bruggeman-Sękowska is an award-winning international journalist, TV correspondent, author, editor-in-chief of an international journalism center, the Central and Eastern Europe Center, president of the European Institute on Communist Oppression and a sworn translator. She has graduated from the American Culture Studies and journalism. She was born in Warsaw, Poland, and also has Armenian heritage and roots in Lviv, Ukraine. photo: Berat ©communications-unlimited.nl

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