Former Prime Minister Sali Berisha and his family will not be allowed to obtain visas to the United States.
The news was confirmed by the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, who through a post on Twitter said that this decision was taken by official Washington " for corrupt acts that violate democracy in Albania."
"The corrupt acts of former Albanian President Sali Berisha undermine democracy in Albania. I publicly designate Berisha and his family members unfit to enter the United States. We remain united against corruption with our partners in Albania." - wrote Antony Blinken.
Former President of Albania Sali Berisha’s corrupt acts undermined democracy in Albania. I am publicly designating Berisha and his immediate family members as ineligible for entry into the United States. We remain #UnitedAgainstCorruption with our partners in Albania.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) May 19, 2021
"In his official capacity as prime minister of Albania in particular, Berisha became involved in corrupt acts, such as misuse of public funds and interference in public processes, including the use of his power for personal gain and the enrichment of his political allies and members. of the family, in abusing the trust of the Albanian public towards government institutions and public officials " - it is said in the statement of DASH.
Except Mr. Berisha, DASH announces that his wife, Mrs. Liri Berisha, his son, Mr. Shkëlzen Berisha and his daughter Mrs. Argita Berisha Malltezi. These individuals may not travel to the United States.
"This definition reconfirms the US commitment to support key political reforms of the Albanian democratic institutions. The US continues to stand with the Albanian people. "The department will continue to use authorities like these to promote the accountability of corrupt individuals in the region and globally," the DASH statement concluded.
