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A paradox from Tirana: Failed coup d’etat in Turkey, memorial in Albania

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9 mins read
6 years ago
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By Alfonc Rakaj A memorial built in Tirana’s central park for the fallen of the failed Turkish coup in 2016 has been publicly shunned. Turkey’s assertive foreign policy toward the region, and Rama’s close personal relationship with Erdogan has many worried about Ankara’s malign influence in Albania. Politics of Space Turkey and Albania enjoy a strong bilateral relationship. For decades these ties have been bolstered by increased trade, people to people exchanges and aid. Yet, the formers association with the Ottoman period is often contentious in Albania. Its neo-ottoman approach to Albania in particular and Albanians in general continues to…

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Story Highlights

  • A commemorative memorial for the fallen of the failed Turkish coup in 2016 in Tirana’s largest park has sparked public outcry and inspired speculation about Turkey’s influence in Albania’s domestic affairs. Adding to this is undoubtedly Rama’s close personal relationship to Erdogan, two powerful leaders with extensive power and influence over their respective state institutions, which has made it increasingly difficult to determine where the institutional relationship ends and where the personal starts.

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