National Historical Museum in collaboration with the Albanian Nationwide Collectors Centre opened the exhibition “104th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of Albania”. On November 28th an object of great value was exposed. It was the pen used by Albanian delegates in the National Assembly of Vlora, for signing the Declaration of Independence Act of Albania.
Director of National History Museum Mr. Melsi Labi said: “Although a small object, it plays an important role in our history. The Pen stands near the Declaration of Independence, as a symbol of the ending of Albanian National Renaissance stage and opening a new page in the history of our state”. Later in his opening speech Mr. Labi said: “The Act of Declaration of Independence is one of the most important events in the history of the Albanian people. It was the fruit of the efforts and wars of Albanians to defend the territorial integrity of the country and form an independent Albanian state.
With the decision of the National Assembly in Vlora, Albania won its inalienable right to be free and independent, alongside other nations and peoples of Europe. The Act of Declaration of Independence contains these words: “After what Mr. Ismail Qemal Beu said, which showed the great risk in which Albania is today, all delegates in one voice decided to make Albania itself, free and independent.” The Declaration of Independence and the establishment of the national flag in Vlora was a common victory for all Albanian people, which came as a result of the struggle for national independence, with rifle and pen “.
Later Mr. Labi continued: “I conclude with the great Konitza’s definition on our national flag. Faik Konitza has the merit of discovering Skanderbeg’s flag.” The Flag summarizes past memories of a nation in an unwritten language that eyes and hearts of every human can grasp. What memories this waving flag presents?! They are memories of self-defense with tireless labors and with long and powerful bravery who have left traces on the literature of all civilized nations. From this viewpoint we can all boast that our Flag, as one of the oldest in the world, is a righteous one. ”
