Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama said his controversial remarks about Greeks were intended as “humor” and had been amplified by nationalist reactions, as he outlined economic reforms and bilateral issues ahead of a visit to Greece.
Rama, in his 13th year in office, said Albania had made “a very important change” and had become “a touristic destination,” with growth around 4%.
“The most important thing is that we have succeeded in overcoming the stigma and the many prejudices,” he said.
He acknowledged concerns over the informal economy, estimated at around 30% of GDP, describing it as part of a “historical phase of transformative change.”
“We are building up and changing every day,” he said. “State revenues continue to increase without raising taxes.”
On remarks made earlier that “you think you are descendants of Plato and Aristotle, but you are not,” Rama said they were misunderstood.
“I regret that comments meant to be teasing and provocative… can turn into serious issues,” he said. “They are not intended to offend.”
He added that his views on Greece were “entirely positive,” citing admiration for its “history, language, literature and culture.”
Addressing speculation about Greek roots, Rama denied claims linked to his family or education.
“If I had Greek roots, I would be very happy and proud, but I do not,” he said. “I am proud of my Albanian roots.”
On property disputes involving the Greek minority, Rama said the issue was not ethnic but systemic.
“Property rights remain a broader issue across the country,” he said. “Greeks and Albanians… face the same challenges.”
He said Albania was working to “clean up and consolidate the cadastre,” issuing new property titles, particularly in southern areas such as Himara.
“This process is complex,” he said. “There are still tens of thousands of old houses… in the process of obtaining titles.”
Rama said Himara remained central to Albania’s tourism strategy, describing it as “one of the richest municipalities” due to development revenues.
“People benefit significantly from this growth,” he said.
On tensions with Iran, following criticism from Ali Khamenei, Rama used strong language.
“If paradise and hell exist, I wish he rots in hell,” he said, citing abuses by the Iranian regime.
He said Albania did not fear retaliation and had hosted Iranian opposition figures “for humanitarian reasons.”
“We do not like or appreciate that regime at all,” he said.
On relations with Greece, Rama said he admired recent developments under Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
“I am very impressed by what has been happening in Greece,” he said, citing “high-quality hotels and resorts.”
He said Albania would continue promoting itself as a tourism destination and had a policy of avoiding holidays abroad.
“It would not make sense to promote Albania… while spending holidays in countries like Greece or Turkey,” he said.
Rama is due to visit Greece this week for the Delphi Economic Forum.