ALBANIA: Bajram Begaj, a retired military commander and politician, was sworn in as Albania's 9th President during a ceremony in Parliament.
In his first address to parliamentarians as President, the 55-year-old said that he will support and respect both the work of the government and the opposition, urging cooperation among political parties.
"Above the parties, I shall carry out this mission. I will not remain neutral in the face of anyone who prioritises political objectives over national goals, and I will support and insist on cooperation among all political groups "Begaj said. He also urged political parties to "move away from confrontational politics and toward dialogue-based politics."
"Our nation's vitality needs unity now more than ever. Let us all work together to make Albania even more attractive so that it can return to its rightful place."
On June 4, Begaj was elected President. A total of 83 parliamentarians voted in the plenary session of Parliament, with Begaj receiving 78 votes in favour, four voting against, and one abstaining.
He was a major general who served as the Albanian Armed Forces' chief of general staff. Begaj was joined to his inauguration by his wife Armanda and two boys.
On Sunday morning, outgoing President Ilir Meta released on social media his final message to the nation as president, a position he held for five years, beginning in July 2017. "It was an exceptional honour and privilege to serve as President of the Republic of Albania for these five years. I wish our homeland and nation the best! I wish every Albanian family peace and success "Meta wrote.
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