Hoxhaj in Tirana: The Albanian diaspora is our natural expansion in Europe and the world

As part of the WO-MEN Power Summit, held in Tirana, Enver Hoxhaj was part of the discussion panel where he addressed the role of the Albanian diaspora in today's society.

In his speech, Hoxhaj emphasized the importance of strengthening Albanian networks in the Balkans and the West, underlining that networking is the key to personal, professional and collective success.

Referring to Harvard University studies, he emphasized that human connections are more important than wealth, fame, or political positions.

"There are about 7 million Albanians living in the Balkans, while in the West there are about 2 million more. We have an Albania and a Kosovo in the Balkans, and another one in the West," said Hoxhaj, calling for a new perception of the diaspora as a natural extension of the Albanian identity in global geography.

“The benefits of networking for Albanians in the Balkans and the West include access to employment opportunities, professional connections, career advice, new ideas and valuable information. Networking for Albanians also helps in personal and business growth, in building relationships and in gaining a competitive advantage in the economies of the Balkans, Europe and everywhere in the world!”, said Hoxhaj.

He praised the role that Albanian businesses, academics, athletes and artists already play abroad and stressed that it is time for Albanians to be present in international politics. “If others – Greeks, Croats, Serbs and Bosnians – do it, why shouldn’t Albanians do it too?” concluded Hoxhaj.

"Albanians living in the West should see themselves not as a diaspora or an exile, but as an extension of Albania and Kosovo in a European and global geography! Albanian businesses are shining everywhere today; young Albanians are renowned academics, athletes and artists, becoming icons for Western societies. But it is time for them to enter Western politics everywhere, becoming part of the American Congress, the British Parliament, the German Bundestag and other institutions! If others – Greeks, Croats, Serbs and Bosnians – do it, why shouldn't Albanians do it too?" Hoxhaj continued at the Summit.

The summit, which brought together personalities from various fields, focused on the economic and social empowerment of women and the role of the diaspora in building new bridges of cooperation and development. /Telegraph/