The Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, conducted an official visit to the Monastic State of Mount Athos and the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi yesterday, Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Mr. Rama arrived early in the morning at the port of Dafni, where he held a meeting with the Political Governor of Mount Athos, Alkiviadis Stefanis. Following the meeting, the Albanian Prime Minister proceeded to the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi, where he was officially received by the Abbot, Elder Ephraim, and the Monastic Brotherhood.
Bringing his own background as an artist, Prime Minister Rama expressed his deep admiration for the monastery’s historic architecture and ecclesiastical art, stating he was profoundly impressed by what he witnessed.
Furthermore, Mr. Rama noted his familiarity with the Athonite Philokalia and the rich spiritual heritage of the Holy Mountain.
The Albanian Prime Minister stayed overnight at the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi and departed early this morning.
