With deep sadness the President of the Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou says goodbye to him Blessed Archbishop of Tirana, Durres and All Albania Anastasios, speaking of one of the great figures of the Orthodox Church, a hierarch who opposed intolerance and religious fanaticism, looking forward to mutual understanding, dialogue, fellowship and the peaceful coexistence of peoples.

Specifically, Mrs. Sakellaropoulou states:

“It is with deep sadness that I say goodbye today to one of the great figures of the Orthodox Church, the Archbishop of Tirana, Durres and All Albania Anastasios. A leading personality who connected theological reflection with the practice of tireless giving, leaving a great pastoral, social, educational and charitable work. A hierarch who opposed intolerance and religious fanaticism, looking forward to mutual understanding, dialogue, fellowship and the peaceful coexistence of peoples. His theological studies, his scientific studies, his missionary experience in Africa and his tireless struggle, despite the difficulties, for the reconstruction of the Orthodox Church of Albania constitute an exemplary path. The constant support to the Greek National Minority, as well as his interest in the progress of Albanian society as a whole without religious or racial discrimination, leave indelible traces in the hearts of the people he met, supported and loved. The high values ​​that defined his path will always continue to move us.”