Tirana, Albania—More than 150 VIPs and Ambassadors for Peace celebrated the 18th anniversary of the founding of UPF.
“The Universal Peace Federation – A Union of Values” was held in the Peace Embassy in Tirana on September 12, 2023.
Among the VIPs were the ambassador of Kosovo to Albania, three current members of parliament, the deputy minister of tourism, two former ministers, and several former parliamentarians.
In his opening remarks Defrim Methasani, the chair of the Tirana Peace Council, thanked all the leaders of UPF-Albania for their contributions over the last 18 years to the development of the organization.
Mr. Methasani expressed special thanks to Hon. Gaqo Apostoli, Ali Laçej, Dr. Niko Veizaj, Dr. Astrit Memia, Professor Suzana Turku, Dionis Kotmilo, as well as several Ambassadors for Peace who have passed away: Lavdie Ruci, Professor Dalip Çota and Halit Muharremi.
The program started with a video about UPF’s international projects and initiatives since its founding in New York City in 2005 by Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon.
Then the current UPF-Albania chair, Dr. Eva Çipi, and its first chair, Hon. Gaqo Apostoli, offered congratulatory remarks.
Two well-known musical artists entertained the audience: the famous tenor Josif Gjipali, who created a wonderful, festive atmosphere, and the well-known singer of folk music Vera Laçi.
After a presentation by Secretary General Gani Rroshi on the journey of UPF-Albania during the past 18 years, 10 distinguished personalities with special contributions in their respective fields were honored with the title Ambassador for Peace:
Hon. Flutura Açka, a member of parliament and a well-known writer; the tenor Josif Gjipali; Kastriot Selita, a former chair of the Administrative Court; businessman Irfan Zebi; Ejona Kocibelli, a university professor who lives in the United States; journalist Agim Pipa; Sokol Gjata, an architect living in the U.S.; Erjola Balla, a branch director of Credins Bank; journalist Arben Tafili; and Elton Merolli, an expert in economics.
