The Albanian ambassador to Vienna, Fate Velaj (also known as Fatmir Velaj), is increasingly coming under public and political scrutiny.

At the center of the storm are investigations by international media and information from investigative circles suggesting that Velaj may be involved in shady dealings, including possible previous contacts with intelligence networks and suspicions that he used diplomatic privileges to protect a family member.

Toyota Yaris affair: millions found with political explosiveness

The discussion was triggered by a sensational discovery in the port of Durrës (Albania): In June 2018, police discovered around 3.4 million euros in cash hidden in two Toyota Yaris cars that had been transported to Albania via Belgium and Germany (Albanian Daily News). According to Albanian media, the vehicles were linked to a German businessman who allegedly intended the cash for legal investments in Albania – a claim that is being questioned by the investigating authorities (Politiko.al).

Diplomacy in the twilight zone: protection for a wanted person?

Another explosive aspect of the case is that Erjona Daupaj, Velaj’s sister-in-law, is suspected of being involved in the affair, according to reports by the Special Prosecutor’s Office for Combating Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK). Several sources, including the investigative portal Fass ohne Boden, report that Daupaj is said to have been staying at the Albanian embassy in Vienna for a time – possibly to evade the Albanian judiciary. There is no official confirmation of this. Investigators are now apparently also examining mobile phone data to reconstruct his exact whereabouts during critical periods.

A past in the secret service?

According to well-informed circles, investigators are also looking into Velaj’s previous contacts with structures of the former Yugoslav intelligence service UDBA. Evidence of such connections is currently being examined forensically and journalistically – both by investigative authorities and by media representatives in several European countries. What is clear is that on June 2, 2023, the Albanian Foreign Ministry had an internal review (see document) conducted of three people for an ambassadorial position—the initials F.V. stand for Fate Velaj. The fact is that, in addition to the Albanian investigative inquiries, Serbian and Israeli intelligence services are also contributing to the clarification and evaluating documents. So far, there are no final assessments, and the presumption of innocence naturally applies.

Political pressure is growing – also in Austria

The Albanian diaspora in Vienna is alarmed. A long-standing member who wishes to remain anonymous told our editorial team:

“We call on Prime Minister Edi Rama and Foreign Minister Igli Hasani to send a new, untainted ambassador with an impeccable reputation to Vienna.”

Fate of Velaj, or when the donkey becomes a knight (Kastriot Myftaraj 1966-2022).

The well-known Albanian journalist and analyst Kastriot Myftaraj, who died in unclear circumstances, also dedicated a personal article to Fate Velaj in 2014. ( https://www.facebook.com/100044320365138/posts/646439522081522/ )

Quote from Kastriot Myftaraj: “In conclusion: In Albania, they say that the knighthood Fate received was the moment when ‘the donkey became a knight’. And when Edi Rama hugged him at the ceremony, he is said to have whispered in his ear: ‘My old friend, the donkey deserved this award more than you.’”

Opposition wants to review ambassador’s appointment

The case has also caused political waves in Austria. The opposition is planning a parliamentary inquiry to Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger. Among other things, it concerns the appointment of the ambassador, the backing of the current federal government, in particular the SPÖ and NEOS, and the question of whether, in the event of a court conviction of Velaj, an application for renewed Austrian citizenship would still be permissible after the end of his diplomatic service. There is also discussion about reviewing the legitimacy of awards such as the “Golden Medal of Merit of the Republic” and academic titles.

Government in Tirana under pressure

In Tirana, the explosiveness of the situation seems to be recognized: insiders report that Velaj’s dismissal as ambassador is being discussed internally. Nothing has been officially confirmed yet, but according to observers, pressure on the Albanian government is growing daily.

Conclusion

The Velaj case is a prime example of how fragile the structure of diplomatic immunity, political trust, and international rule of law can be. The investigations – both by the public prosecutor’s office and journalists – are in full swing. It remains to be seen whether the numerous suspicions will materialize into substantiated allegations. One thing is clear: the diplomatic stage is increasingly becoming a theater for international demands for transparency. And Vienna is in the spotlight.