President Bajram Begaj paid a visit to Plav and Gusinje, where he met with representatives of the Albanian community and took part in the event “Welcome to the Albanian Alps-Vuthaj 2026.” During the event, he was honored with the “Pride of the Albanian Alps” award, in a ceremony focused on cultural identity and Albanians’ connection to their native regions.
Visit focused on the Albanian community in Plav and Gusinje
According to the official statement, the head of state held meetings with representatives of the Albanian community in Plav and Gusinje, an area of symbolic importance for Albanians in Montenegro.
The visit was part of the event “Welcome to the Albanian Alps-Vuthaj 2026,” presented as a gathering linking the diaspora, the homeland, and the area’s cultural heritage.
Begaj’s message on identity and heritage
In his remarks, Begaj described the event as a bridge between Albanians and their homeland, emphasizing the preservation of national identity and the strengthening of ties between generations.
According to the president, the Albanian Alps carry part of the history, character, and way of life of Albanians, while in these regions customs, songs, clothing, and other elements of traditional culture have been preserved.
Plav and Gusinje at the center of the political and cultural message
Begaj also stressed the importance of preserving the Albanian language, traditions, and culture, praising the role of the Plav and Gusinje community in protecting national identity.
Along the same lines, he underlined that this community has also contributed to the development of Montenegro, a formulation that places the visit not only on a symbolic level, but also in relation to the position of Albanians in the neighboring state.
The “Pride of the Albanian Alps” award
During the event, President Bajram Begaj was honored with the “Pride of the Albanian Alps” award.
According to the organizers, the recognition was given for his contribution to protecting national interests and for supporting Albanians wherever they live.
The ceremony in Vuthaj placed the emphasis on the historical and cultural weight of the Albanian Alps, as well as on the role of Albanian communities outside state borders.
Begaj’s visit to Plav and Gusinje was thus accompanied by a strong symbolic message, as well as by a public recognition that the organizers linked to his relationship with national issues.