The President of the Republic of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani, met today with the President of the Province of Cosenza Mrs. Rosaria Succurro, with whom she discussed the economic, political and cultural relations between the various municipalities of Kosovo and Cosenza. Madam President emphasized that it is very important to create new opportunities for cooperation between our businesses, cultural institutions and tour operators. In Cosenza there are 21 Arbëresh municipalities where tradition, culture and national tradition continue to be preserved for almost six centuries.
“The digitization of Albanian literary manuscripts of the 19th century is an asset that should be offered to researchers and new generations,” said President Osmani.
The President of Kosovo, Vjosa Osmani, also held a meeting with the mayors of Arbëresh municipalities in the Province of Cosenza. Madam President thanked them for their unparalleled commitment to the cultivation of the Arbëresh language, culture and traditions, as an important part of Albanian culture and identity.
“We want to work together with you to identify opportunities for the realization of joint projects for the preservation, nurturing and further advancement of your cultural and linguistic traditions,” said the President.
Madam President recalled the extraordinary role that the Arbëresh have played throughout history in preserving and promoting the cultural and political identity of Albanians.
Furthermore, Madam President appreciated the way the people of Arbëresh have created a good model for all ex-pats and by integrating themselves into the life of the host country, they have nurtured and preserved their traditions, becoming successful citizens of the country, but also a contributor to the culture of the ancestors.
“You have given to the culture and to the ethnic body, but also to the host country, Italy, the colours of a special culture, which is the wealth of the country and the culture where you come from, but also of the country that welcomed you,” said President Osmani.
The President raised the possibility of designing and implementing projects for the preservation of linguistic heritage and cultural traditions, through the recording and publication of oral memory.
“The slow decline of the use of the Albanian language among the younger generations and the reduction of the population, due to migration, is a challenge faced by many countries, including the regions where Arbëresh live. Therefore, clear promotional policies are needed,” said the President.
She underlined the necessity of expanding cooperation, and designing tourist itineraries and cultural exchanges, in order to preserve the connection with the land of the ancestors. She appreciated the cooperation of Arbëresh municipalities, which have already been twinned with several Kosovo municipalities.
