The Albanian Bishops’ Conference has condemned the burning of the Vatican flag during a protest on Durrës Street in Tirana, describing the act as unacceptable and contrary to the law and Albania’s tradition of hospitality.
In an official statement, the Bishops’ Conference expressed solidarity with the Apostolic Nuncio in Tirana, Archbishop Mirosław Adamczyk, and the staff of the Apostolic Nunciature, after several individuals removed the Vatican flag during the protest and allegedly burned it along with other objects.
According to the Catholic Church, the act disrespects a symbol of the Holy See and creates insecurity for the staff of the diplomatic mission.
“The right to protest does not include the right to use violence against anyone, especially against friends of our country,” the statement said.
The Bishops’ Conference called on state institutions to take preventive measures and ensure the protection of diplomatic missions in accordance with the law and international agreements.
At the same time, the Catholic Church condemned violence regardless of which side is responsible, stressing that it must not endanger the lives and health of protesters.
In concluding its statement, the Bishops’ Conference called for responsibility, calm and mutual respect, highlighting the importance of dialogue and maintaining good relations with diplomatic missions in the country.
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