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The Embassy of Albania in Vienna |
The Ambassador
H.E. Fatmir Velaj
H.E. Fatmir Velaj has served as Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to Austria since May 2024. He is a politician, cultural policy specialist, artist, and former member of the Albanian Parliament. Before his appointment as ambassador, Velaj served as a Member of the Albanian Parliament (2017–2021), where he was involved in the Parliamentary Committees on European Integration, Foreign Affairs, and Education, Media, Youth and Culture. He also chaired the parliamentary friendship group with the Austrian Parliament.
Before entering parliament, Velaj worked as Diplomatic and Cultural Advisor to the Prime Minister of Albania (2013–2017) and has been internationally involved in cultural diplomacy, including as a painter, photographer, writer, and curator of exhibitions. His background combines political experience with cultural diplomacy, reflecting Albania’s emphasis on strengthening European integration, cultural exchange, and bilateral relations with Austria.
History
Relations between Albania and Austria have deep historical roots. Diplomatic links date back to 3 December 1913, when Austria-Hungary established consular representation in Albania. Following the First World War, diplomatic relations between Albania and the Republic of Austria were formally established on 22 February 1922. After the interruption caused by the Second World War, relations were re-established on 7 February 1956.
Today, Albania and Austria maintain friendly and close relations, particularly within the framework of Albania’s European integration process. Austria has been one of Albania’s important partners in supporting EU-related reforms, economic development, education, and institutional strengthening. The two countries cooperate closely in international organisations, including the United Nations and the OSCE, and maintain regular political dialogue through high-level visits.
