Peace Embassy, Tirana, 12 September 2025 - In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) and in conjunction with the UN International Day of Peace, UPF Albania and the Tirana Regional Peace Council held a big event at the Peace Embassy in Tirana. The theme was “The World on the Crossroads: Principles of Peace – a Necessity”.
The Alfred Moisiu Hall of the Peace Embassy was filled to capacity with over 160 personalities from various fields of study. There were Ambassadors for Peace, representatives of institutions, special guests and friends of UPF - from Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo, - making this event into a true day of reflection and inspiration.
The reception was moderated with professionalism and passion by Mr. Defrim Methasani, President of UPF Albania, who gave the value and dignity that such an occasion deserved. Of course, the programme began with the national anthem, accompanied by violina, played by the young artist from Vau i Dejës, Gabriela Jaku.
A special dignitary present was the former President of Albania, Mr. Alfred Moisiu, also President of the High Peace Council for the Balkans. In his welcoming speech, President Moisiu expressed deep appreciation for the achievements of the Federation over the past twenty years and emphasised the importance of cooperation and security in the region and beyond.
Dr. Saemira Pino, Vice President of UPF Albania, delivered a keynote speech summarising the activities of UPF during its 20-year journey, acknowledging the work of all the organisation’s leaders over the years.
Mr. Kastriot Selita, Chairman of the Tirana Regional Peace Council, and Secretary General, Mr. Gani Rroshi, spoke about the Principles of Peace and the urgent need that the world has today for their recognition and implementation in order to overcome global crises and conflicts, so that sustainable peace becomes a reality.
The event was enriched with artistic elements that touched the hearts of all those present. Well-known artists Besiana Mehmedi and Shkodran Tola from Skopje, thrilled the audience with their interpretations. Talented student Melisa Halili gave a performance that touched everyone’s hearts, and the National Folk Dance Ensemble performed a medley of dances with motifs from Central Albania, turning the hall into a mosaic of Albanian culture and spirit.
To conclude the celebrations, UPF honoured twelve special personalities with the title of Ambassador for Peace. The nominees are the following:
Prof. Dr. Arben Gjata; Prof. Dr. Adem Bunguri; Amb. Pandeli Pasko; Ms. Besiana Mehmedi; Mr. Gjovalin Shqalshi; Mr. Seladin Xhezairi; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Armira Kapxhiu; Mr. Ismail Varoshi; Mr. Kristo Çipa; Ms. Denisa Basha; Mr. Avdul-Selam Selami; Mr. Genci Kastrati.