TIRANA, Jan 25 /ATA/ Prime Minister Edi Rama is participating on Saturday in the event organized on the 95th anniversary of the establishment of the World Bektashi Headquarters in Albania, where he emphasized that “Bektashism is a living monument of culture that must be protected by the state and the Albanian people.” 

This event is organized under the auspices of the World Bektashi Head, His Holiness, Haxhi Dede Baba Edmond Brahimaj, at the Hall of the National Opera and Ballet Theater, with the participation of Bektashi clergy, representatives of other religious communities, high-ranking state officials, believers, and well-wishers. 

In his speech, Rama stated, “It is an honor to speak on this anniversary of the establishment of the World Bektashi Center in Albania and to express my admiration for the role of Albanian Bektashis in awakening national consciousness and contributing to the Albanian struggle for independence. I also wish to show my solidarity with those who, despite the growing and unique challenges they face today, continue to keep the flame of this faith alive.” 

“Today, I brought with me this particularly extensive book by the renowned foreign scholar, Robert Elsie, who, despite being an outsider, had a profound love for Albania and its people, even requesting to be buried here. I encourage anyone who wishes to discuss the idea of granting sovereign status to the World Bektashi Leadership’s headquarters to take a look at this thorough compilation of Albanian history. In it, they will find all the legitimate reasons for why this idea holds value. Every Albanian, regardless of their faith—whether they believe in God or not, whether they are Muslim, Christian, or Bektashi, and even those with just a little patriotism—will find it impossible not to be moved by the remarkable history of struggles, pain, and sacrifices made for the homeland. This makes Bektashism an invaluable treasure in our historical and cultural heritage,” said Rama. 

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