President Bajram Begaj attended the opening ceremony of the 25th anniversary edition of the Ulcinj Book Fair.

The fair is regarded as one of the region’s most important cultural events, bringing together authors, publishers, writers, and book enthusiasts from Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and other countries. It aims to promote books, language, intercultural dialogue, and strengthen ties among countries across the region.

In his address, President Begaj praised the organizers for turning an idea into a mission and for choosing Ulcinj as the host city of the fair.

Highlighting the importance of books in Albanian society, the Head of State said that Albania’s history has rightly honored those who demonstrated resilience, sacrifice, and courage.

“For a long time, they had to defend their country, freedom, language, and the right to be themselves. Today, it is no longer enough to simply be proud of our history. We must be prepared for the future. This is precisely where the importance of books begins. A book does not only provide information. It teaches us to concentrate, to ask questions, and not to take everything for granted. It teaches us to listen to different opinions and to understand that the world does not begin and end with our personal experience,” he said.

Speaking about the irreplaceable role of books in preserving the Albanian language, President Begaj stressed that books keep the language alive while enriching the country’s traditions, culture, and national identity.

“A language is not preserved simply because we inherited it. It is preserved when it is used properly, written, read, and passed on to children. It is enriched by authors, translators, teachers, researchers, journalists, and everyone who works with words,” he added.

Begaj emphasized that books should be treated as a national priority.

“Books should be treated as a national priority not only in speeches or during book fair openings, but also through the way we invest in libraries, select books for schools, support publishers, translators and authors, and bring books closer to children,” he said.

Earlier in the day, President Begaj was welcomed at the Municipality of Ulcinj by Mayor Genci Nimanbegu. During the meeting, they discussed the municipality’s challenges and development projects, its long-term vision and programs, as well as the importance of strengthening the representation of the Albanian community in Montenegro.

As part of his visit, President Begaj also met with representatives of the Albanian political community in Ulcinj to reaffirm the Albanian state’s support for the Albanian political factor in Montenegro and for the protection of their rights.