Albanian premier calls for dialogue as anti-government protests enter 7th day
Prime Minister Edi Rama places chairs bearing inscription 'Dialogue' outside his office, says government is open to talks but rejects engagement with those involved in violence
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama called for dialogue Monday as anti-government protests continued across the country for a seventh consecutive day.
Rama placed chairs bearing the inscription "Dialogue" outside his office, according to the ATA news agency.
"Whoever wants dialogue, wherever they want, whenever they want, even here if they wish, I am available together with the government," Rama reportedly said.
The prime minister stressed that he would not agree to sit at the negotiating table with people involved in acts of violence.
"The only ones who are not welcome are those who commit violence and those who do not distance themselves from violence," Rama said.
The protests began on Oct. 13, initially driven by student concerns over education costs, university conditions and economic prospects.
Demonstrators have also raised broader grievances over corruption and the rising cost of living.
