By Genc Sejko
Today, at the age of 84, Abdi Baleta surrendered his soul to his Creator. The news of the passing of this distinguished personality is a great loss for his family, friends, but above all for the Albanian nation.
There are not enough words to describe the man Abdi Baleta was. He was a rare intellectual, a steadfast patriot, and a politician of high integrity, qualities that are increasingly rare today. At the most difficult crossroads of our modern history, Baleta was the voice of reason, the man who raised the national cause and steadfastly defended the interests of Albanians wherever they lived.
As a diplomat, thinker and analyst, he always remained uncompromising in his principles. His voice rang not for personal interests, but for the future of the nation. He was our best advocate, a critical voice, but always fair. His example as a public man is a model of purity, dignity and loyalty to the truth.
With his departure, Albania loses a bright mind and a big heart, but his intellectual and moral legacy will remain a guide for generations to come.
