Bamir Topi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bamir Topi
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Topi in 2008
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| President of Albania | |
| In office 24 July 2007 – 24 July 2012 |
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| Prime Minister | Sali Berisha |
| Preceded by | Alfred Moisiu |
| Succeeded by | Bujar Nishani |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 24 April 1957 Tirana, PR Albania |
| Political party | Democratic Party (1990–2007, 2023–Present) |
| Other political affiliations |
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| Spouse |
Teuta Mema
(m. 1982) |
| Parents | Riza Topi (father), Haxhire Karapici (mother) |
| Alma mater | Agricultural University of Tirana |
| Signature | .svg) |
Bamir Myrteza Topi (born 24 April 1957) is an Albanian diplomat and politician. He served as the President of Albania from 2007 to 2012.
Before becoming president, he was the honorary president of the KF Tirana football club from 2005 to 2007. In September 2012, after his presidency, Topi became the leader of the New Democratic Spirit political party.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Bamir Myrteza Topi was born in Tirana, Albania, on April 24, 1957. His parents were Riza Topi and Haxhire Karapici.
He studied at the Agricultural University of Tirana. He earned a degree in veterinary studies. Later, he completed a PhD in the same field.
From 1984 to 1995, he worked as a scientific researcher. He was at the Institute of Veterinary Scientific Researches. Between 1987 and 1990, he studied in Italy. There, he focused on Molecular Biology.
After returning from Italy, Topi became a director. He led the Food Safety and Veterinary Institute until 1995. He also taught at the Veterinary Medicine Faculty for about ten years. He taught subjects like Toxicology and Pharmacology.
Political Career
Bamir Topi was first elected to the Albanian Parliament in 1996. He then served as the Minister of Agriculture and Food until 1997.
He was elected to the Assembly of Albania three times. He represented the Democratic Party of Albania. For two terms, Topi led the Democratic Party's group in the Assembly. He also became the vice-chairman of the Democratic Party of Albania. This party was led by Sali Berisha.
Topi was known as a calm and balanced politician. He worked hard to solve problems between the ruling party and the opposition. He helped create political agreements and new laws.
Becoming President
On March 8, 2007, Topi announced he would run for president. He was the candidate for the ruling Democratic Party. Other parties, like the Demochristian and Republican parties, also supported him.
The parliament needed four attempts to elect a president. The opposition party, led by the Socialist Party, did not vote at first.
On July 8, Topi received 75 votes. This was not enough, as 84 votes were needed. A second vote on July 10 also failed, with Topi getting 74 votes. On July 14, another vote was held. Topi received 50 votes, and another candidate got 32.
Finally, on July 20, in the fourth round, Topi gained support from some opposition members. He won 85 votes and was elected President of Albania. He officially took office on July 24, 2007, for a five-year term.
After becoming president, Topi resigned from his role as vice-chairman of the Democratic Party. He also left the party.
Support for Kosovo's Independence
Bamir Topi strongly supported Kosovo becoming an independent country. He spoke to the European Council and other international groups. He explained why Kosovo needed to be a sovereign state.
In January 2009, Topi visited Kosovo for three days. He was invited by Kosovo's President, Fatmir Sejdiu. During his visit, he was made an honorary citizen of Pristina, the capital city. He also received an honorary doctorate from the University of Pristina.
Honours and Awards
- Knight Grand Cross of the Grand Order of King Tomislav (Croatia) – awarded on April 7, 2009. This was for his great work in improving relations between Croatia and Albania.
- Doctor Honoris Causa of the University of Pristina (January 25, 2008)
- Honorary Citizen of Pristina (January 26, 2008)
- Honorary Citizen of Burrel (Albania)
- Honorary Citizen of Gjakova, Kosovo
See also
In Spanish: Bamir Topi para niños
- Presidents of Albania
