The former President of the USA, Bill Clinton, was decorated this Monday with the "Star of Appreciation for Public Achievements". Prime Minister Edi Rama gave the medal to the 42nd President of the USA, who expressed the highest regard for Clinton.
"Now we have a little something to finish with Hillary and Bill Clinton. Mr. President, you, the man of hope, have been with us all along through your words and deeds, but today you are among us to remind us of the lessons from a not too distant history, to reaffirm America's commitment to our peace and once again to call us to hope. There are no words that can adequately express the deep humility I feel now in humbly asking you to accept the "Star of Appreciation for Public Achievement", which is actually the highest award given by the office of the Prime Minister, to someone who deserves this extraordinary recognition from our country", said Rama.
Meanwhile, at the ceremony honoring Bill Clinton, there were two notable absences. The first was former prime minister Sali Berisha. Berisha's absence is justified by the fact that he has been declared non-grata by the USA. However, Bill Clinton is not part of the Biden administration and is a friend of the Albanians.
The other big absence was that of Ilir Meta. The leader of the Freedom Party is considered one of the most "American" politicians in Tirana, but to honor Bill Clinton, he did not deserve to participate, as did his wife, Monika Kryemadhi. Maybe since the ceremony was organized by Rama.
Also absent was President Bajram Begaj, who is sick according to the press office of the Presidency.
Present at this ceremony were the former presidents Alfred Moisiu, Rexhep Meidani, Bamir Topi, as well as the deputies of the majority, as well as the mayors elected on May 14
A part of the opposition responded positively to Prime Minister Rama's invitation. The former chairman of the Democratic Party, Lulzim Basha, and the deputies who support him also participated in the ceremony.