The detention of a mayoral candidate belonging to the Greek minority in Albania has raised tensions between the two neighboring countries. Greece’s Foreign Ministry released a statement Saturday demanding the release of Dionysis-Fredi Beleri, a candidate for mayor of the Albanian city of Himare, which has a strong Greek minority presence. Greek media reported that Beleri was arrested by Albanian police early Friday on charges of vote buying, two days ahead of local elections. A court confirmed Saturday that he would remain in custody. The Greek ministry’s announcement implies that the case could negatively impact Albania’s application to join the European Union.
