In an unprecedented development, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that the country will grant sovereignty to Bektashi Muslims, making it the smallest state in the world, covering an area equivalent to a quarter of Vatican City. This step aims to promote values of tolerance and moderation in response to a vision of transforming the Bektashi center in the capital, Tirana, into an independent state that manages its religious and administrative affairs autonomously.

The new entity, which will span ten hectares, will have its own passports and borders, and its government will be headed by the Bektashi leader, Baba Mondi, while a Bektashi council will oversee the organization of religious and administrative operations. According to the official statement, this state aims to preserve the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Bektashi community, which has lasted for a century.

This move comes as Albania strengthens its commitment to peaceful coexistence among various religions, with Muslims making up about half of the country's population of 2.4 million, known for their harmonious relationships with Catholic and Orthodox communities.