Former Socialist minister leaves Albania, Ditmir Bushat receives an irresistible American offer

For years now, he has been away from active politics, but not from the public or academic sphere.

The former head of Albanian diplomacy in the “Rama” government, Ditmir Bushati, has accepted an offer from Harvard University, the oldest university in the U.S. and considered one of the most prestigious in the world.

Bushati himself announced the news on his official Facebook page, stating that he will join Harvard University’s Center for International Relations, at least for this academic year.

BUSHATI’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Harvard University is a powerhouse of thought and the heart of innovative ideas.

I have been fortunate to visit Harvard twice: once as a minister, when I spoke to students about the challenges facing Southeastern Europe, and earlier as a participant in an executive program on negotiations.

It is an honor and a pleasure for me to now join Harvard University’s Center for International Relations for this academic year, engaging in research projects and a series of lectures with students, faculty, and scholars on the role of U.S.-EU relations in consolidating peace and prosperity in Southeastern Europe.

The Center for International Relations, founded in 1958 by Henry Kissinger and Robert Boëie, is Harvard’s largest research institution focused on international relations.

It serves as a meeting point for academics and practitioners from around the world, reflecting an early commitment to linking academic study with practical experience. I consider this a valuable opportunity, as it allows me not only to contribute based on my experience but also to learn from others.

The rules-based international order has been severely challenged by the Russian aggression in Ukraine and the renewed conflict in the Middle East.

For our region, the consequences are clear, given the geographical proximity and unresolved statehood issues.

The current moment is especially challenging as it exposes a gap: the need for U.S.-EU coordination in our region remains high, while the space for cooperation between them appears to be shrinking.

Therefore, it is important to examine U.S.-EU policies, instruments, and models of cooperation in Southeastern Europe, in the service of a transformative agenda and the consolidation of the region’s European project.

“KORÇA BOOM”