North Macedonia's basketball incident sparks political reactions in Albania
The Speaker of the Parliament, Elisa Spiropali, reacted to the recent incident at a basketball game in Kumanovo (North Macedonia), CE Report quotes ATA.
In a social media post, Spiropali said that “yesterday’s event in Kumanovo, where a basketball game was marred by extremely offensive and exclusionary chants against Albanians, is unacceptable and serves as a reminder that the path toward a just, inclusive society based on mutual respect requires continuous commitment.”
“The language of hate that incites violence, ethnic conflict, and racism has no place in any public space, especially not in sports, which at its core carries the spirit of unity, cooperation, fair play, and respect for others,” Spiropali emphasized.
She praised the response of North Macedonian institutions while also calling for an even stronger public reaction from the highest officials of the friendly country.
“Interethnic coexistence in North Macedonia is a shared value on the European path, which must be preserved and cultivated responsibly by all regional actors through actions, attitudes, and example. Proper behavior in fields, stands, and institutions says a lot about our vision for the future,” Spiropali stressed.
Speaker Spiropali stated that “Albania and Albanians remain steadfast in promoting a model of coexistence, far from outdated and divisive attitudes.”
During the basketball game between North Macedonia and Romania in Kumanovo, extremely offensive and exclusionary chants against Albanians were heard.
