The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs condemns the acts of vandalism committed yesterday at the premises of the Apostolic Nunciature in Tirana, including the removal of the flag of the Holy See.

Respect for the inviolability and dignity of diplomatic missions is a fundamental obligation, in accordance with Albanian legislation and international law.

The right to protest is an integral part of a democratic society; however, it must be exercised in compliance with the law and must exclude any form of violence or vandalism. Those responsible for these unlawful acts must be identified and held accountable under the law.

The Ministry commends the response of the State Police and expresses its confidence that the competent authorities will fully investigate the incident and, together with the institutions concerned, ensure the security and inviolability of all diplomatic missions in Albania.