ABC News Albania was present at the premises of the National Diaspora Agency, where it conducted an introductory visit and an interview with the Executive Director, Ms. Ermonela Xhafa, and the Agency’s staff. The interview was carried out by the journalist and well-known activist on diaspora issues—particularly those of the Arbëresh community—Mr. Artur Nura.
During the interview, the Executive Director of the National Diaspora Agency, Ms. Xhafa, highlighted the strategic and coordinating role played by the National Diaspora Agency—an institution under the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs—in the drafting and implementation of state policies for the Albanian diaspora.
As a key institution, the National Diaspora Agency works to strengthen ties between the Albanian state and our compatriots worldwide, building functional and sustainable bridges of cooperation.
The importance of continuous interinstitutional coordination was also emphasized, where the triangle of cooperation among the National Diaspora Agency, Albania’s diplomatic representations abroad, and diaspora communities constitutes an essential element for the effective implementation of diaspora policies. This coordination ensures direct communication, concrete support, and dignified representation of the interests of Albanians living abroad.
During the interview, particular emphasis was placed on the strategic attention given to the Albanian community in Italy, one of the largest Albanian diaspora groups in the European Union, with over 550,000 compatriots. This community is regarded as a key partner for the country’s sustainable economic, cultural, and social development. At the same time, special attention is devoted to the historic Arbëresh communities, a rare cultural and identity heritage of the Albanian nation, whose preservation and promotion are pursued through continuous cooperation with the respective communities and partner institutions in host countries.
Through concrete programs, projects, and initiatives, the National Diaspora Agency aims to empower the potential of the diaspora and to be as effective, accessible, and supportive as possible for Albanians wherever they may live.
For 2026, in close coordination with the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, among other partners, and within the framework of strengthening state policies, the National Diaspora Agency is focused on the drafting and approval of the National Diaspora Strategy 2026–2030 and its action plan; the successful organization of the 4th Diaspora Summit, under the auspices of Prime Minister Mr. Edi Rama, as a key, open, and inclusive platform for strengthening dialogue and cooperation between the state and the Albanian diaspora.
Additionally, 2026 objectives include the creation of a digital platform for professional networking among Albanians worldwide; strengthening cooperation with diplomatic representations and local structures; deepening collaboration with the Coordinating Council of the Diaspora and reinforcing its advisory role within the framework of expanding the Council to 21 members. In parallel, work will continue to support and promote the Albanian language and culture, and efforts will begin to establish the legal framework for Cultural Centers in the Diaspora, with the aim of increasing diaspora engagement in the country’s economic, cultural, and social development.
This interview represents further evidence of the transparency and institutional vision of the National Diaspora Agency, highlighting its unwavering commitment to informing and raising public awareness about diaspora policies and the vital role of Albanians abroad in shaping Albania’s future. In close cooperation with other institutions and agencies, the Agency aims to strengthen ties between the Albanian state and our compatriots worldwide, creating bridges of cooperation with long-term impact.
The media will be one of the National Diaspora Agency’s key strategic partners, playing an important role in promoting initiatives that generate positive impact for Albanian communities wherever they are located. Through cooperation with the media, the goal is to highlight the steps toward building communication bridges, disseminating national values, and implementing projects that foster development, mutual understanding, and success stories for the Albanian diaspora.
