Llangollen Eisteddfod Welcomes Albanian Peace Ambassador

Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod presented with global sign of peace from Albanian Peace Ambassador

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, one of the foremost world festivals promoting goodwill between nations and celebrating unity and peace, has welcomed the Albanian Peace Ambassador ahead of the nation’s participation in the 2017 festival.

The Albanian Peace Ambassador, Fitim Mimani, was greeted by Eisteddfod Chairman, Dr Rhys Davies, Susan Elan Jones MP, Merle Hunt Competitor’s Liaison Officer and a group of the Eisteddfod’s volunteers, as he presented the festival with the gift of three olive trees – a traditional symbol of peace, health and hope.

Following the participation of Visaret E Gores – a group of Albanian dancers and musicians – at the 2016 Llangollen Eisteddfod Fitim made a number of visits to investigate ways to bring more Albanian competitors to the festival._DSC0306

He returned to present the symbolic gifts, as a gesture of friendship and understanding between nations, and introduce Qypryllinjte E Roshnikut, a collective of five Albanian dancers and musicians who will be visiting the festival in 2017.

At the presentation, Eisteddfod Chairman, Dr Rhys Davies said: “We have such fond memories of the Albanian group from 2016. Their impromptu performances on the field were a joy and passers-by were encouraged to join in the dances.

“They seemed to bring the warmth and sunshine of Albania to our festival and we are looking forward to welcoming back performers from the country in 2017.

“We would like to thank Fitim and the rest of his party for the wonderful gifts and were touched by the gesture.

“We’d also like to extend our warmest thanks to everyone in Overton and the surrounding area who opened up their homes to our distinguished visitors. The continued support of the local community is what makes the Eisteddfod such a special event and is one of the main contributing factors to its success and noted heritage.”

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, a unique celebration of global music, dance and culture, takes place from Monday 3rd – Sunday 9th July 2017.