Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama at the Prime Minister’s Office in Jerusalem, highlighting a deepening partnership rooted in shared values, historical truth, and moral clarity. The meeting underscored Albania’s unique place in Jewish history and its continued support for the State of Israel during times of crisis.

Welcoming Prime Minister Rama, Netanyahu described him as a close friend of the Jewish people and the Jewish state, emphasizing that he represents what Netanyahu called the true spirit of Albania. He pointed to Albania’s extraordinary record during the Holocaust, noting that it was the only European country where the Jewish population grew rather than declined. That growth, Netanyahu said, was the result of Albanians—many of them Muslim—who protected Jews with courage, tolerance, and a profound respect for human dignity.

Netanyahu stressed that this story remains insufficiently known and deserves global recognition, describing it as the kind of history that could inspire films and shape moral understanding across generations. He credited Albania’s actions during humanity’s darkest chapter as a reflection of values that continue to guide the country’s leadership today.

The Israeli prime minister also praised Rama for standing firmly with Israel during recent attacks, stating that Albania’s moral compass did not waver in the face of intimidation. Netanyahu said such courage and commitment to truth distinguish Rama as an outstanding leader, not only for Albania but for all who believe in defending shared moral values against extremism and barbarism.

Beyond historical and moral ties, Netanyahu highlighted the rapid growth in practical cooperation between the two countries. He noted that Israeli tourism to Albania has surged by 800 percent, with expectations that the number will soon reach even higher levels. The increase, he said, reflects growing people-to-people connections and the strengthening bond between the two nations.

The meeting reinforced Israel’s appreciation for Albania’s friendship and reaffirmed a partnership built on history, trust, and a shared resolve to stand for truth, dignity, and mutual respect in an increasingly turbulent world.