Arbëresh communities and Albanian representatives meet in Calabria

The Union of Albanian Municipalities in the Region (UBSHR) organized the Permanent Forum of Regional Tourism in the Arbëresh communities of Calabria, Italy. The event, held from September 18–20, brought together approximately 60 representatives from various Albanian-speaking regions, including leaders from Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and the Preševo Valley, alongside the Arbëresh diaspora in Italy.

As part of the ‘EXPO ARBËRIA’ project, the forum aims to strengthen cooperation between municipalities through cultural, touristic, and economic initiatives. Activities were centered in Spezzano Albanese, with visits to historical centers such as Frascineto, Civita, and San Demetrio Corone to showcase Arbëresh heritage, including language, gastronomy, and traditional customs.

Beyond the cultural agenda, the gathering included a symbolic message of solidarity with former members of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) following recent legal proceedings in The Hague. Participants expressed the sentiment, ‘Freedom for the liberators.’