By Gjon Keka
On the occasion of November 28, I present here two telegrams, according to the Austrian press of the time. One was sent by Ismail Qemali and the other by Secretary Luigj Gurakuqi. They informed about the declaration of Albania’s independence in 1912.
As is well known, Austria was the first country to recognize Albania’s independence and supported the strengthening of the new state in Europe. It was in fact Austro-Hungary that protected and sustained the newly born Albanian state.
The Albanian nation should be grateful to Austro-Hungary for its generous and unwavering support in the creation of the Albanian state.
The telegrams are as follows:
1. Ismail Qemali informs Count Berchtold about the declaration of Albania’s independence
The President of the Provisional Government, Ismail Qemali, sent a dispatch to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Count Berchtold, stating that the National Assembly, composed of delegates from all Albanian territories, without distinction of religion, gathered today in Vlora, declared the independence of Albania and formed a provisional government.
Therefore, Ismail Qemali requests that Austro-Hungary recognize the change in the political life of the Albanian nation. Albanians are confident that the Austrian government, like the entire civilized world, will offer a friendly welcome by protecting them from any interference in their national existence and against any partitioning of their territory.
2. Declaration of Albania’s Independence
“Reichspost” has received the following telegram in French from Vlora:
Vlora, 29 November
The National Assembly, composed of delegates from all Albanian territories, without distinction of religion, gathered today in Vlora, declared the independence of Albania and formed a provisional government, whose president is Ismail Qemal Bey.
Secretary General of the Assembly
Luigj Gurakuqi
Historical note
These two telegrams were sent immediately after the historic declaration of Albanian independence on 28 November 1912 in Vlora. Austria-Hungary was the first country to recognize the new Albanian state and played an important role in protecting it from being divided among neighboring countries during the Balkan Wars. The article emphasizes the gratitude Albanians owe to Austria-Hungary for its early support.
Original article
https://realitetipost.net/dy-telegrame-nje-nga-ismail-qemali-dhe-luigj-gurakuqi/
