Hasani: “The principles of Helsinki remain the foundation of peace and security in Europe. The OSCE must be able to defend them resolutely.”
Helsinki, Finland, 31 July 2025 – On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, Albania’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mr. Igli Hasani, participated in the High-Level Conference “Helsinki+50,” organized by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland.
The event marked half a century since the adoption of the OSCE’s founding document – a landmark in European security history and a reference point for international relations rooted in principles and rules.
In his address, Minister Hasani underlined that the core principles of the Final Act – including respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, the non-use of force, and respect for human rights – are not merely historical norms, but essential guiding standards for the international order, particularly in today’s context.
“The continued violation of these principles by the Russian Federation through its aggression against Ukraine poses a direct challenge to the credibility of the OSCE,” stated Minister Hasani. “Precisely in such an environment, the role of the OSCE as a platform for dialogue and as a guardian of the Helsinki principles becomes even more indispensable.”
The Minister stressed that Albania, as an active OSCE participating State and former OSCE Chair, remains committed to a functional and effective organization, capable of responding to modern challenges – not only military, but also digital, hybrid, environmental, and social.
The “Helsinki+50” Conference brought together senior representatives of OSCE participating States, partner countries for cooperation, OSCE executive structures, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, civil society, and international organizations. The Conference was also addressed by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres.
The gathering reaffirmed the enduring relevance of the Helsinki Final Act and the urgent need to strengthen commitment to its principles at a time when the international order is facing heightened tensions and new challenges.
