Tsipras' response to Rama: 'One's stance on nationalism is proven by actions'

Alexis Tsipras, leader of Greece's Left Front (EL.AS.), issued a swift and pointed response to Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, following Rama's remarks about an incident involving a member of the Greek ethnic minority in Albania.

Rama had previously accused Tsipras and EL.AS. of transforming what he described as a "single incident" into a matter of political importance. He argued that the case should not be presented as a violation of minority or property rights, nor as an indication of issues within the rule of law.

In a post on X, Tsipras expressed his surprise at Rama's sharp response, which he characterized as "accusations of nationalist rhetoric" directed at EL.AS.'s statement concerning the violence against a Greek citizen and member of the Greek National Minority. Tsipras emphasized the importance of adhering to the European acquis.

“

Each of us's stance towards nationalism is proven by our actions.

Tsipras stated, "Each of us's stance towards nationalism is proven by our actions." He recalled efforts toward peace and cooperation in the Balkans, citing the Prespes Agreement as an example of political responsibility and progressive positioning. Tsipras differentiated between the "patriotic duty to defend the rights of our national minority" and nationalism, which he believes continues to poison relations between peoples.

He expressed satisfaction with measures taken against those responsible for the incident and urged authorities to ensure the protection of all citizens' rights. Tsipras concluded by hoping for future cooperation with Rama on the European path of the Western Balkans and the strengthening of Greek-Albanian relations, noting that progress in property rights for all Albanian citizens and the Greek National Minority contributes to Albania's European perspective.

“

I must confess that it also surprises me that you rushed to respond with barbs about nationalist rhetoric to the announcement by the Greek Left Front (EL.AS.) about the violence inflicted on a Greek citizen and member of the Greek National Minority.