The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ferit Hoxha, announced today that Albanian activist Baki Goxhaj, who was on the "Global Sumud" flotilla, which was stopped by Israel while attempting to go to Gaza, is now returning to Albania.
Hoxha writes that Albanian diplomatic units have been in constant contact with Israeli authorities to guarantee full respect for Baki Goxhaj's rights until his return to Albania.
Minister Ferit Hoxha's post
The Albanian citizen, Mr. Baki Goxhaj, participant in the “Global Sumud” flotilla, is already on his way home.
From the first moment of the alert, the structures of the #ForeignService, in coordination with other Albanian institutions, have been following the issue without interruption, in constant communication with the Israeli authorities.
#Albania has been clear and consistent in its demand for full respect for the rights of Albanian citizens, in accordance with international law and humanitarian norms, reacting against any form of unacceptable treatment.
This case is another testament to the daily dedication and professional work of the Foreign Service, including our #diplomatic and #consular missions, to be close to Albanian citizens at all times and in all circumstances, with responsibility, professionalism and full institutional commitment.
This is our mission: to represent and protect the interests of the Republic of Albania and national interests, to be close to #Albanian citizens, especially in moments when they most need the support, care and commitment of their state.
The humanitarian flotilla 'Global Sumud' with 54 ships was stopped in international waters on May 18 while they were delivering aid to Gaza. Albanian Baki Goxhaj was also on board. They were transferred to Israel, and videos were published in the media as the Israeli Minister of National Security mocked them while they stood with their heads down, kneeling and in handcuffs.
Yesterday, Turkey was involved in the special operation to evacuate all activists detained by the Israeli army from Gaza. This also made it possible for Albanian Baki Goxhaj to return home.