To His Excellency Edi Rama

Prime Minister of the Republic of Albania

 

With vivid memories of my recent Apostolic Journey to Albania, and particularly of the exquisite courtesy and the warm hospitality which you, and the members of Government and the other Authorities, afforded me during the various stages of my Visit, I once more offer you my heartfelt thanks.

I readily reaffirm my esteem for the example which Albania has shown with regard both to the rebirth of the Catholic Church and the peaceful and serene relationships between the different religions. The Albanian people is the most youthful of Europe, and because of its youth it can look to the future with great confidence. This youthfulness also contains the roots for the nation’s authentic spiritual, economic and cultural progress.

It is my hope and my cordial good wish that you and your fellow citizens will always advance in peace and prosperity. Upon all of you I invoke God’s blessings. I will continue t pray for you, Mr Prime Minister, for the members of your family, your associates and the entire people of Albania. Please pray for me.

Fraternally

Francis

From the Vatican, 27 September 2014