Tropojë, Albania – In one of the most beautiful places in Albania, in the Valbona Valley, the municipality of Tropojë presented its Trophy of Gratitude to two former presidents and UPF’s top representative in Europe. On July 6, 2024, the city’s mayor, Mr. Rexha Byberi, presented the award to Dr. Alfred Moisiu, former president of Albania and Dr. Fatmir Sejdiu, former president of Kosovo. Also honored was Dr. Michael Balcomb, chairman of UPF for Europe and the Middle East.
In his speech, Mayor Byberi emphasized that the former presidents had both been "honorary citizens" of Tropojë for years. He said they were being honored for their continuous contributions to the promotion of democratic values and peace in the country, in the region, and beyond.
Dr. Balcomb was awarded for UPF’s work in expanding the network of Ambassadors for Peace throughout Albania, through Peace Councils in all 61 municipalities in the country.
Dr. Moisiu and Dr. Sejdiu expressed their appreciation for the award, describing Tropojë as the cradle of Albania’s traditions, hospitality and patriotism, and hoping that the region would become a popular tourist destination for both Albanians and foreigners.
Dr. Balcomb, in his acceptance speech, described the stunning beauty of Valbona as a place “where heaven and earth seem to dance together.” He said he now understood even more clearly why Albanians have a natural love for God and for friends, as well as the courage to achieve whatever they set out to do.
The event was beautifully enhanced with artistic performances by traditional dancers, musicians, and a children's group, which created a wonderful atmosphere.
In conclusion, attendees thanked Mayor Bybei, who is an ambassador for peace, and Mrs. Feride Rrahmanaj, chairperson of the Tropojë Peace Council, for organizing this event. They also acknowledged Mr. Abdulla Domi, chairman of the Kukës Regional Peace Council and vice chairman of UPF-Albania, and Mr. Abedin Kërrnaja, vice mayor of Tropojë, for coordinating and overseeing every detail of the activity.
