Parliament Speaker Niko Peleshi has condemned violence during protests in Albania, stressing that attacks on institutions and the destruction of public and private property have nothing to do with the right to demonstrate.

Peleshi said young people have every right to demand greater opportunities and rights. They also deserve to dream of a future with the same opportunities as their peers in the European Union.

“Attacks on institutions, arson and the destruction of property have nothing to do with students or their right to protest,” Peleshi wrote. He also shared the European Commission’s statement on the protests, which have continued in Tirana for six days.

He stressed that violence cannot resolve citizens’ concerns and called on all sides to engage in dialogue and listen to one another.

“Let us sit down together, without prejudice or resentment. Every passing hour makes dialogue more difficult,” Peleshi said. He added that communication must continue even when the parties disagree.

The Parliament Speaker concluded with an appeal for unity and cooperation in the country’s interest.

“Let us extend a hand to one another today! We share one goal: Albania,” he said.

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