Final farewell: Albania and Kosovo honor Ismail Kadare in state burial

July 3, 2024 -  Today, Albania bids farewell to one of its literary giants, Ismail Kadare. Public tributes for the revered author commenced at 9:00 AM at the National Theatre of Opera, Ballet, and Folk Ensemble. The state farewell ceremony will follow at 11:30 AM, and by 12:30 PM, the funeral procession will proceed to Tufina cemetery.

In a mark of respect, Albania has declared July 2 and 3 as days of mourning, with Kosovo joining by observing July 3. Flags in both nations are flying at half-mast to honor Kadare’s legacy.

The state ceremony, organized by the Prime Minister’s Office, will see the attendance of the highest officials, including Prime Minister Edi Rama, President Bajram Begaj, and Speaker of the Assembly Lindita Nikolla, alongside ministers, cultural figures, and diplomats. Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani and Prime Minister Albin Kurti will also be present to pay their respects.

Ismail Kadare, who passed away at the age of 88 on Monday, leaves behind a towering legacy in Albanian literature and culture.