Alleged internal messages attributed to Albania’s foreign minister have triggered political reactions in North Macedonia and Albania, intensifying tensions among Albanian political parties in the region.
The controversy began after an Albanian opposition lawmaker, Belind Këlliçi, published what he described as internal ministry communications, claiming that Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha had used derogatory language about ethnic Albanians in North Macedonia.
Këlliçi said such language was unacceptable for a senior diplomat and called on Hoxha to take responsibility.
Albania’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs rejected the claims, describing the messages as “false” and “fabricated,” and stating that the alleged communication “has no connection with reality.”
Officials said the content had been created for political purposes and criticised the spread of unverified information.
Reactions in North Macedonia
The allegations prompted reactions in North Macedonia, where Economy Minister Besar Durmishi – a high figure within ruling coalition VLEN – described the reported remarks as “disappointing and unacceptable,” calling for clarification from Tirana and an apology if the messages proved authentic.
Durmishi said such language would violate ethical and professional standards expected of public officials and stressed that Albanians in North Macedonia are an integral part of the wider national community.
He also criticised what he described as the lack of response from Albania’s ambassador in Skopje.
Political divide deepens
The Democratic Union for Integration (DUI) in opposition criticised the response from the VLEN coalition, accusing it of aligning with ethnic Macedonian political interests and undermining Albanian unity.
DUI said the coalition VLEN, – a second party within the government led by VMRO-DPMNE of PM Hristijan Mickoski, – was engaging in political attacks against Albania rather than defending the interests of ethnic Albanians in North Macedonia.
Authenticity remains unclear
Despite strong political reactions, the authenticity of the alleged messages remains unverified. No independent confirmation or institutional investigation has been announced.
The dispute has added to political polarisation among Albanian parties in North Macedonia, particularly between VLEN, part of the governing coalition, and DUI, now in opposition after years of dominance.
The controversy comes amid broader debates over language rights, representation and relations with Albania.