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Greece Raises Concerns Over Violence at Albania Protest, Says Greek Citizen Was Injured
SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2026
Greece’s Ministry of Foreign Aairs has expressed strong concern over violent incidents that occurred during a protest in the coastal area of Zvërnec, Albania, where residents and activists demonstrated against a planned resort development.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the ministry said that a Greek citizen was among those injured during the clashes that erupted at the demonstration on May 30. The reference is widely understood to concern a member of Albania’s Greek minority community.
According to the statement, the Greek Embassy in Tirana immediately took all necessary steps to provide the injured citizen with consular and medical assistance.
“The Ministry of Foreign Aairs expresses its strong concern regarding the incidents that took place yesterday, May 30, 2026, in Zvërnec, Albania, during a protest by residents over their property rights, among whom was a Greek citizen who was injured,” the ministry said.
Greek officals stated that the embassy is also engaging directly with Albanian authorities, seeking a full clarication of the events and accountability for those responsible.
“The Embassy of Greece in Tirana is simultaneously undertaking the necessary démarches with the Albanian side, requesting a full investigation of the incident and the accountability of those responsible,” the statement added. Athens said it had taken note of the initial response by Albanian authorities, who have already launched investigations into the violence that occurred during the protest. The Greek Foreign Ministry also reiterated the importance of upholding the rule of law, including the protection of property rights and the rights of members of the Greek National Minority in Albania.
In addition, the ministry highlighted the need for eective protection of environmentally protected areas, linking the issue to Albania’s obligations under European Union standards and legislation. “We reiterate the need for full respect for the rule of law, including the protection of the rights and property of members of the Greek National Minority, as well as the importance of eective protection of protected environmental areas,” the statement said.
The ministry further noted that compliance with the European Union’s legal framework remains an important condition for progress in Albania’s EU accession process.
The latest reaction from Athens adds an international dimension to the controversy surrounding the proposed tourism project in Zvërnec, where tensions have intensied following allegations of violence by private security personnel against protesters opposing the development.